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This is the monster from the deep that washed up on a beach leaving marine enthusiasts delighted.

The giant squid measured a whopping 7 metres long from top to tentacle and was found on a beach in Kaikoura, New Zealand.

With giant suckers and a massive beak, the sea-creature could have been the stuff of nightmares but in actual fact turned out to be something of a dream for experts.

(Image: Kaikoura Marine Centre and Aquarium)

Posting the images to their Facebook page, Kaikoura Marine Centre and Aquarium told followers of what they found on the shores yesterday morning.

The post said: "Before the birds got to it - we got help to move it to the aquarium where it is safe inside a freezer with glass windows so you can see it - on display until we can do more with it.

"The mantle itself is over 2m long with a 19cm eye diameter!

(Image: Kaikoura Marine Centre and Aquarium)

"The longest tentacle is just a over 5m! What a beast!"

The giant squid has not been placed in a freezer with glass windows so members of the public can see it

They have the squid in a freezer with glass windows so it can be viewed by the public.