On 1 July 2025, NIWA merged with GNS Science to become Earth Sciences New Zealand.

Atmospheric analysis

NIWA has been using advanced scientific instruments to measure atmospheric trace gases and isotopes for over 50 years.

  • Lesson 2: Wind

    Education Resource
    Sometimes wind can feel like a bit of a mystery because we can feel it, but not see it.
  • The process

    The process of coming to work with us has five steps: applying, a phone interview, a face to face interview, background checks, and an offer.
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    Scientists set to delve into the secrets of the Cook Strait mega-canyon

    News article
  • Mayfly Ecotoxicology laboratory Hamilton.

    Identification and e-guides

    Downloadable and printable guides on identification of common freshwater invertebrates found in New Zealand waterways and lakes.
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    Tuna aquaculture - New Zealand

    New Zealand's first eel farm was established in 1971. Despite other farms opening in later years, no eel farms remained by the start of the 1980s.
  • Canterbury Wave Conditions

    Software Tool/Resource
    NIWA run a computer model which simulates wave heights across the Canterbury continental shelf and along the coast.
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    Map South

    Education Resource
    Most of this climate zone is characterised by cool coastal breezes, and absence of shelter from the unsettled weather that moves over the sea from the south and southwest.
  • Critter of the Week: The Gorgon’s Head - Gorgonocephalus

    A basket star was the first reported animal trawled up from the deep sea back in the early 1800s so they have a spot in the history books of deep ocean exploration.
  • Common climate and weather terms

    Education Resource
    A glossary of common climate change and meteorological terms.
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    What are ppm and ppb?

    PPM and PPB are units used in atmospheric chemistry to describe the concentration of gases.
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    Water Level Instruments

    There are different types of instrument available for measuring water level.
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    Riparian management classification

    Management of stream riparian areas - including vegetation and stock access - influences the health of streams and downstream water bodies.