NZ Scientists in Southwest Pacific Survey

Auckland Museum is leading a six-week expedition to discover more about Southwest Pacific.

The expedition started July 27 in southern New Caledonia and tracks through southern Fiji and Tonga, and should end until September 5, in New Zealand via Rangitahua the Kermadec Islands.

The 20 strong team of researchers from Auckland Museum, Te Papa, Australian Museum, Massey University, Conservation International and the Sir Peter Blake Trust will be carrying out biological surveys and genetic sampling work to compare the biodiversity, population connectivity and community structure of marine environments in the southwest Pacific region.

A number of projects will be carried out during the expedition, including a survey of predator numbers, a visual survey of whales in the region and a large-scale study to document new marine plant and animal species in the area.

During the six week expedition, the team will visit dozens of islands and will document their research activity with stunning images, ultra high-definition video footage and 360 degree videos, captured by Kina Scollay and Richard Robinson.