Physical, chemical and biological monitoring of subtidal sediments within the Greater Wellington region for Greater Wellington Regional Council. Sampling sites are located in Wellington and Porirua Harbours. Sampling frequency = 2-5yearly (Oct/Nov). Sampling began in 2004 (Porirua) and 2006 (Wellington) and is ongoing. Number of sites = 22 total: Porirua (5) and Wellington (17, though this will decrease to 10-11). Extent of site = 20m diameter circular plot. Depth range sampled: 1.7 m to 23.0 m. Number of replicates = 8 infaunal cores, 5 sediment samples (composed of 5 sediment cores each) per site. Measured variables = Infaunal communities (species identified to lowest taxonomic level possible and enumerated). Sediment characteristics: grain size, TOC cadmium, nickel, lead, zinc, chromium, copper and arsenic. Sampling protocol & QA = External taxonomic identification of infauna. Sediment analysis external (Malvern Particle Analyser).