NIWA welcomes the news its merger with GNS will come into effect by 1 July.
The Minister of Science, Innovation, and Technology, Hon. Shane Reti, has announced that our two organisations will join to form the New Zealand Institute for Earth Science by 1 July.
The new entity, which will be commonly referred to as the Earth Science Institute (ESI), will support energy security and sustainability; develop land, marine and mineral resources; and improve our resilience to natural hazards and climate-related risks.
“This announcement marks an important milestone," says John Morgan, NIWA Chief Executive.
"The formation of the Earth Science Institute represents a significant opportunity to enhance New Zealand's scientific capabilities through our combined expertise.
"NIWA and GNS have established strong collaborative foundations as we prepare for this transition into the new Public Research Organisation.
"While there are still many details to work through in the coming months, I'm confident that together we will create an institute that delivers exceptional results for New Zealand's environment and economy."
GNS Board Chair, David Smol, has been appointed as Chair of the Earth Science Institute, with NIWA director Mary-Anne Macleod as Deputy Chair.