On 1 July 2025, NIWA merged with GNS Science to become Earth Sciences New Zealand.

Atmosphere

World class research contributing to our understanding of greenhouse gases, ozone depletion, and urban air pollution.

MethaneSAT

Detecting and quantifying methane emissions by satellite. The core mission of this unique satellite is to support reductions in methane emissions around the world, primarily by reducing leaks from oil and gas production. NIWA's Dr Sara Mikaloff Fletcher is leading a science programme to develop capability to map agricultural emissions and determine the best places for the satellite to look for methane emissions around the world.

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Atmosphere

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    NZ SOLAS (Ocean–Atmosphere Interactions)

    Research Project
    This research aims to provide better predictions of changes in the ocean and climate system, particularly the way in which the ocean around New Zealand regulates greenhouse gases and clouds.
    Oceans

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    Backward trajectory of southerly air arriving at Baring Head

    Facility
    Various meteorological parameters, such as wind speed and direction, air temperature and relative humidity are also measured at Baring Head.
    Greenhouse and trace gases

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    Presentations from previous air quality workshops

    Presentations from NIWA’s air quality workshops are available on this page.
    Air quality

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    Mobile air quality monitoring trailers

    NIWA's mobile air quality monitoring trailers contain equipment capable of measuring a range of key air contaminants and meteorological parameters.

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    Aerial shot of Dobson ozone spectrophotometer dome. Measures total column Ozone.

    Instrumentation at NIWA Lauder

    Facility
    There is a wide range of instruments at Lauder, which are listed on this page.
    Atmosphere

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    Ozone and UV radiation over New Zealand

    News article
    04 December 1998