Surfer attacked by shark near Kiama

A surfer mauled by a shark at a NSW south coast beach is in a critical but stable condition hospital as authorities examine his wounds to determine the species responsible for the attack.

The 22-year-old was bitten on the thigh and hands while in waters about 100 metres from Bombo Beach, near Kiama, on Wednesday evening, the NSW Department of Primary Industries says.

A shark biologist working with police and NSW Surf Life Saving will look at photos of the man's wounds as they investigate the attack.

The man, who told emergency services he didn't see the shark, was flown to St George Hospital where he remains in a critical but stable condition.