Atmospheric analysis

NIWA collects and manages significant amounts of New Zealand's environmental data, particularly in the climate, freshwater, marine and atmosphere domains.

Projections of how climate change is likely to affect New Zealand.

Northern South Island
Nelson, Blenheim
As much of this climate zone is sheltered by high country to the west, south and in some areas to the east, it is the sunniest region of New Zealand. Warm, dry and settled weather predominates during summer. Winter days often start with a frost, but are usually mild overall. Typical summer daytime maximum air temperatures range from 20°C to 26°C, but occasionally rise above 30°C. Late winter and early spring is normally the most unsettled time of the year.

Risks from natural hazards are part of every day life for New Zealanders.

Coastal risk exposure for New Zealand, adaptation guidance for local government and relevant summaries of previous court cases and Building Act 2004 determinations.

All aspects of the climate of Canterbury are dominated by the influence of the Southern Alps on the prevailing westerly airflows.

What does science tell us about New Zealand freshwater mussels?

Charts of coastal bathymetry, sediment, and other information are available for purchase.

Ideas for projects using climate data

Every year, a proportion of eels mature and migrate to sea to spawn. Once eels become migrants (also known as tuna heke or tuna whakaheke) they stop feeding, and progressively develop the external features that clearly distinguish them from 'feeders'.