Sea lion catches some rays on a couch in Oamaru

A sea lion on a couch
The sea lion relaxing Photo credit: Supplied/Holly Baylis

A small seaside town has gained a new resident - a large sea lion spotted sunning itself on a couch.

According to local woman Holly Baylis, it appears the sea lion has found its new home.

"It's been hanging around the Kakanui for the past few weeks or so, but this is the first time it's been on the couch," Baylis told Newshub.

Once word got around, people started coming to see their newest neighbor.  

"It was there for half the morning so people were coming to have a look, and [the sea lion] would kind of move its head and give a little wave."

Baylis says the sea lion has caused quite a stir - but it's handling its fame well.

"So it was there for half the morning. People were coming and having a look and she'd move her head and wave, as if she was saying 'can you guys go? You're ruining my nap.'"

Despite the local interest, Baylis says no one wanted to get too close to the sea lion.

"No one was getting too close, 'cause they'll chase you. And they're quite fast,"

Even though no one wants to get too close, Baylis says they have become accustomed to their new friend.

"It's just part of the town now."

Newshub.