A general view shows an adult Colossal squid (Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni) caught by New Zealand fishermen in deep ocean off Antarctica Feb. 22, 2007. (Xinhua/Reuters Photo) Photo Gallery>>>

    WELLINGTON, March 13 (Xinhua) -- The largest intact specimen of a colossal squid is on its way Tuesday to Wellington's national museum, Te Papa.

    The huge specimen was hauled from the deep last month by New Zealand fishermen in Antarctic waters, then kept in a cool store in Timaru.

    The squid is estimated to be 10 meters long and weigh 450 kg.

    Colossal squid, scientifically called Mesonychoteuthis hamiltoni, was first identified in 1925 after two arms were recovered from a sperm whale's stomach.

    There have previously only ever been six specimens of this squid recovered: five have come from the stomachs of sperm whales and the sixth was caught in a trawl net at a depth of 2,000 to 2,200 meters.

    Kim George from the Ministry of Fishing said great efforts had been made by the San Aspiring crew who caught the squid to keep the squid intact when it came on board.

    Now it is frozen in a "pelican container" and is relatively easy to move and transport.

    Te Papa communications manager Jane Keig was hopeful the specimen was in good condition.

    She expected the ministry would have completed tests and measurements within a few weeks at Te Papa where it may be displayed before going into storage.