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.

  • Giant squid and glow-in-the-dark sharks surprise scientists

    Media release
    A giant squid and several glow-in-the-dark sharks were surprise finds for NIWA scientists last month on the Chatham Rise during a voyage to survey hoki, New Zealand’s most valuable commercial fish species.
  • Auckland set to break dry spell record

    Media release
    Auckland is set to break a climate record on Saturday for the region’s longest dry spell, according to NIWA forecasters.
  • What’s the difference between weather and climate?

    While weather and climate are closely related, they’re not the same thing.
  • Hotspot Watch 12 February 2020

    Hotspot
    Across the North Island, the past week once again featured little if any rainfall for most locations. Soil moisture levels in the lower South Island have improved markedly from last week.
  • Hotspot Watch 5 February 2020

    Hotspot
    A weekly update describing soil moisture patterns across the country to show where dry to extremely dry conditions are occurring or imminent. Regions experiencing significant soil moisture deficits are deemed “hotspots”. Persistent hotspot regions have the potential to develop into drought.
  • Forecast shows Auckland region to stay dry

    Media release
    Aucklanders should not expect any decent rain for more than 10 days, says NIWA principal scientist and forecaster Chris Brandolino.
  • SHMAK habitat - rubbish

    The SHMAK method for rubbish involves collecting and identifying all the rubbish (litter) in the stream and on the stream banks.
  • SHMAK habitat – visual habitat assessment

    The SHMAK visual habitat assessment gives your stream a score that you can use to assess changes over time or compare streams.
  • SHMAK habitat – streambed composition

    Two methods for describing streambed composition: the visual assessment method is quicker while the Wolman walk is more accurate.
  • SHMAK stream life – how to sort and identify your benthic macroinvertebrate sample

    Use an ice-cream tray to isolate and separate your invertebrates. The Benthic Macroinvertebrate Field Guide helps you with identification.
  • SHMAK stream life – how to get your benthic macroinvertebrate sample ready for sorting

    Before you look at what animals you have collected, follow these methods to clear away debris (stones, sand, leaves, twigs) from your sample in the net.
  • SHMAK stream life – collecting benthic macroinvertebrates in muddy-bottom streams

    If your stream has a muddy-bottom or soft-bottom (made of silt or mud), you need to use a different method than if your stream has a stony-bottom.