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.

  • Atlantis ecosystem model

    Atlantis is a 3D, spatially-explicit, trophodynamic ecosystem model that integrates biology, physics, chemistry and human impacts to provide a synoptic view of marine ecosystem function.
  • Methane

    Facility
    Methane (CH4) is the second most important greenhouse gas after CO2 that is produced by human activities.
  • Common climate and weather terms

    Education Resource
    A glossary of common climate change and meteorological terms.
  • Rig shark

    Research Project
    Rig shark is an important inshore commercial fish species in New Zealand, and we need to understand more about their habitats, movements, nursery grounds and vulnerability to human impacts to ensure they are managed sustainably and their productivity is enhanced.
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    What are greenhouse gases?

    Greenhouse gases are atmospheric gases that intercept long-wave (mainly infrared) radiation emitted from the Earth's surface.
  • Chemical contamination and agriculture

    What are the potential sources of chemical contamination from agricultural activities?
  • Organisational sustainability

    NIWA's goal is to provide the science to help New Zealanders transition to a sustainable future.
  • 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.
  • Raglan B, Cam-era monitoring site

    Raglan B

    Raglan B Cam-era station
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    Climate mapping

    Read about how NIWA can map any aspect of climate to help guide your organisation's response to a changing and variable climate.
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    Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI)

    The Standardised Precipitation Index (SPI) is a simple measure of drought (and also of very wet conditions) and is based solely on the accumulated precipitation for a given time period.
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    Modified habitat

    A habitat is an environment or place where animals normally live.