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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    Impacts of geothermal

    How does geothermal energy generation impact water quality and mahinga kai?
  • Mitigation

    Steps to minimise the effects of thermal energy generation on water quality and mahinga kai.
  • Impacts of thermal

    Impacts of thermal energy generation activities on water quality and mahinga kai.
  • Mitigation

    Ways to minimise the effects of hydro-dams on water quality and mahinga kai.
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    How do we gauge the state of New Zealand’s overall water quality?

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    How is water clarity measured and what is its significance?

    Water quality levels are indicated by how well light transmits through water
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    How do I compile accurate water quality models when there is incomplete or highly erratic data?

    In order to compile accurate water quality models, you need data that draws on comprehensive information about water quality.
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    Do glass eels return to waterways where they have familial roots?

    Glass eels are juvenile forms of eel that begin life in the ocean trenches of the Pacific and migrate hundreds of kilometres to New Zealand.
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    What is reasonable mixing?

    Reasonable mixing is the amount of pollutant that can be discharged into a mixing zone.
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    What is a mixing zone?

    A mixing zone is a designated area of a stream or river into which wastewater is permitted to empty.
  • UV measurement - Lauder

    UVI at Lauder

    This information is provided as part of our UV Ozone service, which also includes ozone and UV maps for New Zealand, yesterday’s forecast and measured UV, UV Atlas software, and more. NIWA has also developed an instrument to measure UV levels and display the UV Index on an easy-to-read dial. This is intended for use at swimming pools, outdoor sports events, and so on. The measured UV Index can be affected by cloud cover at Lauder.
  • Causes of altered water flow

    How do land use activities potentially influence water flows?