Oddities

Ambergris, the rare and valuable substance formed inside sperm whales, has a long history in New Zealand’s whaling and trade. Whaling Sketch, Gordon Grant Collection. Reproduced by permission of Canterbury Museum, Christchurch, N.Z.
  • Oddities
    • Ambergris: From Sperm Whales to Perfume Gold

    Ambergris! What’s this ambergris? Well, it comes from the sea, and you boaties and shore fishermen.

    22/09/2025
    Gulper Eel - Eurpharynx pelecanoides. Line drawing.
  • New Zealand Sea Fishes
  • Oddities
    • Gulper Eel – Eurpharynx pelecanoides – By Anthony Harris

    The gulper eel, or pelican eel, is a deep-sea marvel found at depths of 1,500–3,000 metres. With a gigantic mouth, glowing tail, and strange feeding habits, it is one of the most extraordinary creatures ever to wash up on New Zealand shores.

    20/09/2025
    Regalecus glesne (Great Ribband fish), 1895, New Zealand, by Frank Edward Clarke. Purchased 1921. Te Papa (1992-0035-2278/2)
  • New Zealand Sea Fishes
  • Oddities
    • Silvery Oarfish – Regalecus glesne – Rare Fish Found Beachcast

    Silvery Oarfish Found Beachcast at Masons Bay, Stewart Island by Dick Marquand While guiding an.

    22/09/2025
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