On 1 July 2025, NIWA merged with GNS Science to become Earth Sciences New Zealand.

Epibenthic sled being deployed aboard the Tangaroa

An epibenthic sled being deployed aboard the RV Tangaroa. Epibenthic sleds are towed across the rough ocean floor to take samples of large fauna and loose rocks. The object parked on the left hand side is The Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution 'Sentry'. Credit: NIWA/Kareen Schnabel.