(Mola mola).
This giant oceanic fish is not uncommon off the New Zealand coast. It is a lazy swimmer and is usually recognised by the tall dorsal fin, somewhat drooped at the tip, which cleaves the surface. The Auckland Museum has the cast of a specimen stranded at Leigh in 1931 which was 9 ft in height and weighed 10 cwt 7 lb. This fish is harmless.
by Arthur William Baden Powell, Assistant Director, Auckland Institute and Museum.