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.

  • (no image provided)

    What are greenhouse gases?

    Greenhouse gases are atmospheric gases that intercept long-wave (mainly infrared) radiation emitted from the Earth's surface.
  • (no image provided)

    Map N South

    Education Resource
    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.
  • South coast waves

    Wave hazard research

    Research Project
    NIWA collects wave data, develops and verifies wave forecasting systems, and is developing and producing wave projections.
  • The impact of El Niño and La Niña on New Zealand's climate

    El Niño accounts for less than 25 percent of the year-to year variance in seasonal rainfall and temperature at most locations in New Zealand.
  • Applying for vessel time

    Find out how you can have access to Earth Science NZ's research vessels to carry out marine research voyages.
  • Other vessels

    Facility
    NIWA operates about 30 other Maritime New Zealand-certified vessels based at Bream Bay, Auckland, Hamilton, Rotorua, Turangi, Wellington, Nelson, Greymouth, Tekapo, Christchurch, and Dunedin.
  • (no image provided)

    Water temperature and hydro

    How do hydro-electricity activities potentially influence waterway temperatures?
  • Chemical contamination and wastewater

    What are the potential sources of chemical contaminants in wastewaters?
  • Waikato River

    River Environment Classification

    The River Environment Classification (REC) is a database of catchment spatial attributes, summarised for every segment in New Zealand's network of rivers.
  • (no image provided)

    Causes of sedimentation

    What are the potential sources of sediments from land use activities?
  • Statement of Corporate Intent

    This Statement of Corporate Intent (SCI) sets out NIWA's strategy for delivering against its core purpose over the next five years.
  • (no image provided)

    Tuna - freshwater eels in New Zealand

    Tuna is a generic Māori word for freshwater eels. The word will be used interchangeably in this resource.