John Montgomery is emeritus professor at the Institute of Marine Science at the University of Auckland. “Approaches to Auckland” is the classic Hauraki Gulf chart. We can use this chart as a metaphor to highlight the importance of our harbours and surrounding ocean to Auckland’s identity. Through images and background stories he will discuss Auckland’s place in the oceans. Where we came from geologically, the pulse of the gulf as it now is, and how we might chart a sustainable future. People are very concerned about the Hauraki Golf at present and marine reserves. Professor Montgomery has done a lot of good research on marine topics including fish and neuroscience.