Warning: Graphic photo
An orca has been found dead off a remote island north-west of Auckland.
A fisherman initially alerted authorities of a live stranding on Friday evening off Manakapua Island, also known as the Big Sand Island, near Kaipara.
Because there was limited light by then, authorities were not able to head out until the next morning.
However, it is understood by Saturday morning, the mammal could not be found.