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.

  • 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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    What are whitebait?

    Whitebait are the juveniles of five species of galaxiidae, a family of fish confined to the Southern Hemisphere.
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    Tuna - maturation and identifying sex

    The sex of tuna is not determined genetically, as in some other organisms.
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    Map I South

    Education Resource
    The climate of this zone is largely dependent on the lie of the Southern Alps to the west, but many areas are also sheltered by high country to the south and east.
  • 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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    Extreme weather - winds and tornadoes

    Education Resource
    Due to its position in the 'Roaring Forties', a belt of strong winds in the Southern Hemisphere which generally occur between the latitudes of 40 and 49 degrees, as well as its small size, New Zealand is a windy country.
  • Marlborough

    The main characteristic of the Marlborough climate is its dryness. Summer droughts are frequent, and the region is often swept by warm, dry northwesterlies.
  • Common climate and weather terms

    Education Resource
    A glossary of common climate change and meteorological terms.
  • NIWA weather screenshot

    UVI smartphone apps

    Several apps that provide forecasts of the UV index (UVI) are available for smartphones. 
  • UV index signage at Lauder

    UV Index Information

    The UV Index is a measure of the intensity of UV radiation. The UV Index supersedes the idea of "Time to Burn" or "Burn Time", which has been used previously in New Zealand.
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    NZ Drought indicator products and information

    Drought is a common feature of New Zealand's climate. On average, every year or two somewhere in New Zealand experiences a drought.
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    Tuna - recreational fisheries

    The majority of New Zealanders are able to recall a story about catching eels when they were children.