Atmospheric analysis

Deep beneath Waitomo’s rolling hills lies a maze of caves and underground rivers. Here, NIWA researchers braved the dark waters to measure the current and hunt for fishy invaders under the twinkle of the cave’s magical glowworms.

River flows in New Zealand have changed dramatically over the past 50 to 90 years as the climate has varied, a new study has found.

A weekly update describing soil moisture patterns across the country to show where dry to extremely dry conditions are occurring or imminent. Regions experiencing significant soil moisture deficits are deemed “hotspots”. Persistent hotspot regions have the potential to develop into drought.

NIWA’s environmental science helps contribute to sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region.

Nearly half of New Zealand’s river network is partially or fully inaccessible to migratory fish, a new study shows.

A weekly update describing soil moisture patterns across the country to show where dry to extremely dry conditions are occurring or imminent. Regions experiencing significant soil moisture deficits are deemed “hotspots”. Persistent hotspot regions have the potential to develop into drought.

Our official statement in response to Ian Wishart's report about NIWA's Historic Weather Events Catalogue website.

Researchers have developed New Zealand’s most comprehensive online atlas, providing an overview of nearly 600 marine species.

Understanding our variable and changing climate is critical for managing resources and reducing risks.

Our coastline is changing as sea levels rise. Lawrence Gullery looks at a five-year research programme designed to help communities with tough decisions ahead.

Freshwater Cultural Keystone (Taonga) Species such as tuna, kōura and kāeo/kākahi are central to the identity and wellbeing of many Māori communities throughout Āotearoa. For generations, these species have sustained communities and been vital in the transfer of customary practices and knowledge from one generation to the next.

NIWA has working relationships with hundreds of organisations in New Zealand and overseas. Most of NIWA’s revenue is from contestable research funding and commercial consultancy work.