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Scientists capture stunning snapshots
Media release13 December 2024A unique river portrait and a humorous moment with bubbles are some of the award-winning images taken by NIWA staff this year. -
“Spilling the tea” on wetlands
Media release03 December 2024Scientists find link between temperature and carbon storage rates -
Warm, dry summer ahead sparks SunSmart reminder
Media release27 November 2024New Zealanders are likely to spend considerable time outdoors this summer, with the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) predicting warm and dry conditions across most of the motu. -
Microbes behind unprecedented surge in methane emissions
Media release25 November 2024Microbes - such as those living in wetlands, landfills or the digestive tracts of livestock – are behind unprecedented spikes in methane emissions. -
Cheers to crustaceans: New species named after Welly brewery
Media release13 November 2024A new species has been named after favourite Wellington brewpub Fork and Brewer -
Forecasting floods in a fraction of the time with AI
Media release29 October 2024NIWA is using machine learning to forecast flood inundation in a fraction of the time required to run physical models.
Uncovering secrets of New Zealand's unexplored Bounty Trough
Secrets of New Zealand's unexplored Bounty Trough
Who we are
Taihoro Nukurangi. From the bottom of the ocean to the top of the atmosphere and everything in between: NIWA's climate, freshwater and marine science helps develop solutions to the world's environmental problems and enhance the economic value and sustainable management of New Zealand’s aquatic resources and environments. Decision makers at all levels are seeking evidence-based analysis and advice from environmental experts. NIWA’s science provides high quality insights to underpin important decisions, and innovative solutions. NIWA has staff located across 16 different locations in New Zealand and overseas.
Our research
NIWA's purpose is to enhance the economic value and sustainable management of New Zealand’s aquatic resources and environments, and improve our understanding of climate and the atmosphere, to increase resilience to weather and climate hazards.
Our partners
NIWA has working relationships with hundreds of organisations in New Zealand and overseas, from Iwi to government and other research organisations. Most of NIWA’s revenue comes from contestable research funding and commercial consultancy work.
Education
NIWA supports education at all levels in New Zealand, from school programmes and science fairs to professional development. Providing resources for students and teachers is part of NIWA's commitment to helping young New Zealanders discover more about science and technology.
How can we help?
We offer a range of services to iwi, government, councils, businesses, organisations and individuals. We provide access to major environmental monitoring systems, datasets and tools. We can provide evidence to underpin decision making, help you manage operations and reduce the impacts of our changing climate.