Coasts

In comparison to the vast span of geological time, the estuaries that we see today are very recent coastal features.

Useful information and resources on New Zealand's marine flora and invertebrate fauna.

Learn about different kinds of beachs and how they form, with diagrams and examples of each type.

Estuaries are at the bottom of the freshwater drainage network and, effectively, are a part of it. This means that every time we act to protect and enhance streams and rivers we are also benefiting the estuary at the downstream end.

NIWA collects wave data, develops and verifies wave forecasting systems, and is developing and producing wave projections.

This system combines daily sea-level data from NIWA, regional councils, port companies, Antarctica NZ, Bureau of Meteorology and territorial authorities.

Glass eels (about 5.5 to 7.0 cm) arrive in fresh water during spring, especially during September and October, although they may be present from July to December.

Hydrocarbons, although requiring increasingly responsible use, are still an essential part of our modern economy. NIWA has provided survey and consultancy services related to the exploration of offshore mineral resources for thirty years.

The condition of many NZ lakes is under threat from land-use changes and the invasion of alien aquatic plants.