Scientists will undertake a range of surveys to better understand the processes governing this environment and its relevance to New Zealand. These include oceanographic observations, atmospheric observations, whale and benthic habitat studies, along with studies of plankton communities. The whale studies are being undertaken by the University of Auckland. Dr Dave Bowden - who is the leader of the current Southern Ocean expedition of the Niwa reseach vessal - he joins us from the bridge of the Tangaroa.