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

Quill worms

The quill worms, Hyalinoecia longibranchiata, are incredibly abundant in these habitats, they are large carnivorous or scavenging worms who build their own tube for protection. A Critter of the Week on these will  be coming your way shortly. [Photo: NIWA/Oceans Survey 20/20 Chatham-Challenger expedition]