The mako shark (Isurus oxyrhinchus) is a well-known “big game” fish common in North Auckland waters. A record-sized specimen in the Auckland Museum is 11 ft 6 in. in length and weighed 798 lb. The species occurs also in Tasmania, Victoria, South Australia, and New South Wales, where it is known as the blue pointer or snapper shark. This shark is electric blue above and white below, has a pointed snout, and sharp awl-like teeth. It preys on kahawai and other fish, and is, according to anglers, the only local shark that will take a fast-moving bait. The Maoris prized the teeth of the mako as ear ornaments.
by Arthur William Baden Powell, Assistant Director, Auckland Institute and Museum.