Environmental monitoring technician Adrian Aarsen mixes modern and primitive tools to measure flow rates in Spey River, Fiordland.
NIWA monitors rivers and streams across New Zealand to aid with things such as conservation and flood management. Here, an acoustic doppler instrument is measuring discharge levels of the Spey River in Fiordland during a period of low flow.
Because the water was so low and slow flowing, technician Adrian Aarsen wasn’t able to use the boat’s remote controls. Instead, he goes back to basics by guiding it with a manuka branch.
“I took this shot with my phone when there was a little break in the rain. It really highlights Fiordland’s classic colours and weather. I felt lucky to be working in such a cool place, especially because Fiordland looks best when it’s raining,” said Adrian.