The Department of Conservation (DOC) has found the meat and liver of a great white shark at a residential property in Tauranga.
(File image). Photo: 123RF
DOC investigators searched a residential property under warrant, after the discovery of the shark's head at a beach at the base of Mount Maunganui in May.
A man who lives at the property is helping with inquiries.
DOC principal compliance officer Dylan Swain said anyone who caught protected species accidentally should report it to the department.
"Fishers are expected to not only know fisheries regulations for the area they are in, but also to be able to identify the species they catch and whether or not they can be legally taken," he said.
"We would like to thank members of the public who reported this and shared information with us."
DOC said it would not be commenting further as the investigation continued.
Great white sharks are protected under the Wildlife Act 1953. Anyone found killing or possessing them can face up to two years in prison, or a fine of up to $250,000.