Leigh Marine Laboratory

[2][3] In 2009 a major redevelopment of the Leigh Marine Laboratory began with new facilities being opened in 2010.

Further academic staff from the main University of Auckland campus are also frequent users of the laboratory.

The vessel replaced the aging Hawere and was given to the university by iwi Ngāti Manuhiri, a partner in mussel reef restoration.

[3] An important part of research at the Leigh Marine Laboratory is supporting the development of aquaculture in New Zealand.

In addition, research is undertaken on climate change, conservation and restoration, whales and dolphins, microplastics, noise pollution, sea birds, seafloor ecology, aquaculture, kelp and kina.