Science Centres: Oceans
What lies beneath Wellington Harbour?
New insight on sediment processes
Recyclers of the coastal zone
The changing map of Antarctica
What lies beneath Wellington Harbour?
Pelorus in Evans Bay, Wellington Harbour. (Photo: Alan Blacklock, NIWA)
All will be revealed through detailed seafloor mapping of Wellington Harbour, with a survey due to be completed in late January 2008.
Argo deployment reaches new milestones
Dr Drew Lohrer setting up benthic chambers on Waitemata Harbour sandflats. (Photo: Luca Chiaroni, NIWA)
Worldwide, there is growing recognition of the services nature provides that effectively sustain life and business on our planet. NIWA research is highlighting the vital services provided by estuarine ecosystems and the threats they face.
Estuaries act as filters and recyclers: processing nutrients, contaminants, and sediments that are washed off the land.
Bringing the harbour back to life
Postgraduate student Peter Wilson (left) and Dr Kay Vopel measuring microprofiles. (Photo: John Zeldis, NIWA)
Coastal sediment acts as a biogeochemical reactor, breaking down organic matter through microbial activity and chemical processes, and releasing nutrients.
The changing map of Antarctica
Scott Island and the adjacent 60 m high Haggitts Pillar. (Photo: John Mitchell, NIWA)
The seas of Antarctica are amongst the most inhospitable in the world, so it is not too surprising that historically their mapping has left a lot to be desired.
That is changing, however, as NIWA’s research vessel Tangaroa carries scientists to Antarctica to survey islands and map the seabed.
