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.
View the following video about NIWA's work to develop water-sensitive design for urban communities.
Other projects include:
- Urban hydrological monitoring (stormwater and streams).
- Characterising stormwater quality.
- Assessing the performance of stormwater treatment.
- Assessing the impacts of climate change on stormwater.
- Modelling for stormwater management.
- Development of a tool for assessing urban impacts on the environmental, social, economic and cultural values of water bodies.
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Stormwater - an introduction
Stormwater is a major concern for New Zealand because of its potential effects on the ecological health of our urban streams and coastal waters, as well as on the economic, social and cultural value of these environments. -
Urban hydrological monitoring
Urban drainage systems include pipe networks, streams and rivers, often in a highly modified condition. -
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. -
Assessing the performance of stormwater treatment
Stormwater treatment is becoming increasingly important as we learn more about the adverse effects of diffuse pollution on our receiving environments. -
Climate change and stormwater
Stormwater management is recognised by the Ministry for the Environment as a local government service that is potentially at risk from climate change and may need adaptation. -
Modelling for stormwater management
The objectives of this case study were to provide an example of how a risk assessment of an urban drainage system can be undertaken using an existing operational model -
Urban impacts on the environmental, social, economic and cultural values of water bodies
NIWA is leading research aimed at helping local government to plan the development of New Zealand's cities and settlements in a way which protects and enhances the services and values associated with urban water bodies.