An undertaker has removed the skeletal remains which were found on an Auckland beach this morning.

The remains — believed to be human — were discovered near Hauraki Rd, in the Auckland suburb of Takapuna.

A member of the public made the grim discovery around 5.20am, Detective Sergeant Ross Clapp said.

Access to the beach was restricted earlier today as police carried out a scene examination, but it has now been reopened.

Hauraki Rd resident Mary Norton and her disappointed border collie cross Mo were among walkers turned away this morning.

"We were told that, on the beach, somebody had washed up. It's just terrible, so sad."