Biological monitoring of beaches of interest (e.g. those with high ecological values or planned development) within the Hawke's Bay region for Hawke's Bay Regional Council. Sampling frequency = annual (Dec). Sampling began in 2007 and is ongoing. Number of sites = Variable (2 years sampling at each beach, then rotate to another beach). 6 sites so far, with a maximum of 9 to sample. Extent of site = Transects spaced 50m apart spanning from dune to low water. Number of replicates = 2 sites per beach, 3 transects per site, 2 infaunal cores per transect (at mid and low tide). Measured variables = Infaunal communities (species identified to lowest taxonomic level possible and enumerated). Sampling protocol & QA = 5% of infaunal cores sent for QA