The public dissection of a huge shark in a Nelson car park attracted a large crowd today. One person even paid for the privilege of a front row seat.
The mako was caught last month and the catch has excited marine biologists.
A 460kg mako shark is rare enough, but getting to see it dissected in a car park is a once in a lifetime opportunity.
"I think it's amazing," says local Mapua woman Jenny Harris-McKay. "The best thing about it, I think, is that you can bring your kids and they can have a look at what a real life shark looks like, and look at the gills, and touch it."
Only one other pregnant female mako has ever been recorded in New Zealand waters, and the Department of Conservation wanted to share their rare findings with the people of Mapua.
"They get a lot of interest, and it gives people the chance to see something a little bit different," says Clinton Duffy, DoC shark expert.
The local bar owner even donated $600 to the Tasman District Council in exchange for a grand stand ticket.
"It's my contribution to New Zealand science and promoting my brewery, 'cause I was able to put a little sign on it," says Jim Matranga.
Children who came along said they looked forward to telling their mates about it at school on Monday.
It is hoped the shark's impressive jaws will be put on display in Mapua while its remains will be buried on Rabbit Island in Nelson.
3 News