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.

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    Characterising stormwater quality

    Urban stormwater can contain a variety of contaminants at a wide range of concentrations, collected as the rainwater runs over impervious surfaces.
  • Invertebrate ID guides

    See our ID guides for invertebrates.
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    Macrophyte ID guides (plants)

    ID guides to a range of macrophytes.
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    Urban hydrological monitoring

    Urban drainage systems include pipe networks, streams and rivers, often in a highly modified condition.
  • Stormwater management

    NIWA has a range of services and research capabilities to assist with assessing and managing the effects of stormwater and urban development on streams, estuaries and harbours.
  • Identifying New Zealand freshwater fishes

    NIWA has a series of identification guides available to help you identify New Zealand fish species both in the field and in the laboratory. The quick-guides are great for use in the field and the formal keys provide a greater level of detail.
  • NZFFD publications and catchment number directory

    Access commonly cited references for the NZFFD and the Catchments of New Zealand publication.
  • Biosecurity tools

    Software Tool/Resource
    Our biosecurity management tools include: assessment models, field surveys, management advice and the testing of control methods.
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    Winners of NIWA Auckland Science Fair announced

    News article
  • Controlling water weeds with grass carp

    Research Project
    A Ministry for Primary Industries-funded study has shown that grass carp, in enclosures, can be used as an effective means of controlling invasive plant species in our waterways.
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    Ocean modelling

    NIWA answers a wide range of scientific questions using ocean modelling. These models can be linked to well established weather forecasting models to predict ocean temperature, sea level and the dispersal of pollution.
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    References

    This system is based on these papers.