A photographer covering the World Surf League's New Zealand Pro at Raglan was injured Monday morning in what organizers call a "wildlife injury." The photographer suffered puncture wounds and was taken to the hospital in stable condition.
Renato Hickel, WSL tours and competition vice president, confirmed the incident forced a pause in the men's semi-final between Brazilian world champions Yago Dora and Italo Ferreira. Dora was leading at the time.
Officials are unsure if the bite came from a sea lion or a shark, with the on-site doctor leaning toward sea lion. The event is expected to resume later Monday.
This marks the first time Raglan has hosted a full championship tour event. The waves have been scarce for most of the 10-day waiting period, but Monday offered some of the best conditions.
Meanwhile, Australian Morgan Cibilic advanced to the finals, and Hawaii's Carissa Moore will face California's Sawyer Lindblad in the women's final.