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)

    Freshwater invertebrates

    NIWA research into freshwater invertebrates supports a greater understand of the role of these varied aquatic species in habitat and ecosystem health.
  • Freshwater fish

    NIWA research and tools support the protection, restoration and management of New Zealand’s freshwater fish species and the habitats that sustain them.
  • (no image provided)

    Ecotoxicology

    NIWA offers a range of standard toxicity tests for both freshwater and marine environments and is at the cutting edge of toxicity-related research.
  • Ecological monitoring

    Monitoring the health of freshwater lakes and streams.
  • Mangrove on Athenree Estuary

    Estuaries

    NIWA research and tools support the protection, restoration and management of coastal estuarine environments where seawater mixes with freshwater.
  • Weather forecasting

    NIWA's forecasting services are underpinned by experienced meteorologists and in-house proprietary modelling.
  • IRRIGATION INSIGHT - CANTERBURY-2019_Mackay-6938.jpg

    Climate modelling and projections

    Climate modelling and projections will support Aotearoa’s transition to a low-emissions, climate-resilient economy.
  • 2022_05_UPPER_RAKAIA_dempster_080416.jpg

    Climate data

    NIWA maintains the national climate database for New Zealand, and can supply climate data in a variety of ways.
  • wairarapa_drought_2013_dsc_1314_credit_dave_allen_niwa.jpg

    Climate change adaptation

    There are many options available to you, your whānau, community and business to adapt to the challenges of our changing climate.
  • Baring Head Research station and lighthouse on a sunny day

    Greenhouse and trace gases

    NIWA carries out world-class research that contributes to our understanding of greenhouse gases, including emissions and uptake across cities, forests, farms and oceans.
  • Auckland cityscape with view of Sky tower, motorway and the harbour, against clear blue skies

    Air Quality

    Understanding urban air through community-based monitoring programmes and measuring atmospheric air pollution.
  • Soil moisture anomaly map (mm) at 9am on 27 March 2024

    Hotspot Watch 28 March 2024

    Hotspot
    A weekly update describing soil moisture patterns across the country to show where dry to extremely dry conditions are occurring or imminent.