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WELLINGTON, New Zealand (AP) — A New Zealand surfer was attacked by a shark Friday and airlifted to a hospital after suffering moderate injuries.
The man was surfing at 6 p.m. at Baylys Beach about 100 kilometers (60 miles) northwest of Auckland when the attack happened, according to police.
The man, who is in his 20s, was in pain and bleeding after being bitten on his hand, elbow and mouth, according to the New Zealand Herald website, but was able to walk and talk.
Images of the man's surfboard show that the shark left bite marks and a tooth in the board.
Baylys Beach Holiday Park owner Trish Rolfe told website Stuff that several surfers were in the water at the time of the attack.
Department of Conservation marine scientist and shark expert Clinton Duffy told the Herald he believes the shark was a great white based on the markings and tooth.
Shark attacks are relatively rare in New Zealand.
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