Oceanography, sea seismic surveys and benthic surveys of the New Zealand sub-Antarctic Islands areas (Auckland and Campbell Islands), the Macquarie Ridge area and the ocean between New Zealand and the Ross Sea

Oceanographic, sea seismic surveys and benthic surveys were conducted aboard research vessels (HMNZS Endeavour, Wilhoite, Rotoiti, USS Burton Island) between 1959 and 1963. The principal aim of the benthic surveys was to investigate the distribution of fauna between the Antarctic and New Zealand and at the same time survey the sediments and hydrology. Grab samples were obtained for rocks, sediments and biological samples. Oceanographic studies included towing a proton magnetometer behind the ship to measure the total strength of the earth's magnetic field, continuous recordings of sea surface water temperature, bathythermograph observations (temperature and pressure changes), water samples for 14C analysis, salinity and temperature and echo soundings for seismic surveys.