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

Freshwater

We provide public information on river, lake, and groundwater conditions across New Zealand including freshwater quantity and quality.

Rachel Crawford and Paul Franklin inspecting a fish passage on the Waikato River.

Freshwater and Estuaries Update

A seasonal review and outlook for New Zealand's water resources, and an update on NIWA's freshwater research

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    Thermal

    Thermal generation supplies up to 50% of power in Aotearoa.

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    Further reading

    References, further reading, and links to useful websites

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    Mitigation and best practice options

    Ways to minimise the effects of wood processing activities on water quality and mahinga kai are listed below.

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    Further reading

    References and further reading

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    Mitigation and best practice options

    Simple steps to minimise the effects on water quality and Mahinga kai.

  • Link to source page

    Further reading

    References, further reading, and links to useful websites.

  • Link to source page

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    Mitigation and best practice options

    Some simple steps to minimise the effects of meat and dairy processing activities on water quality and mahinga kai.

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    Energy

    The energy industry provides power to households, businesses, transport, and industry.

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    Aquaculture and customary fisheries

    Aquaculture and customary fisheries farm and harvest freshwater and saltwater fish and shellfish.

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    Meat and dairy processing

    Meat and dairy processing factories manufacture products for local and international markets.

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    Further reading

    References, further reading, and links to useful websites

  • Link to source page

    Mitigation and best practice options

    Simple steps to minimise the effects on water quality and mahinga kai.