News

Read about the important science being undertaken at NIWA, and how it affects New Zealanders

  • Steep improvements seen in Auckland air quality, says NIWA

    Media release
    NIWA scientists say air quality has dramatically improved in Auckland since the COVID-19 Level 4 lockdown was instigated.
  • Science voyage cut short for researchers, crew to be with family

    News article
    NIWA’s flagship research ship Tangaroa returned to Wellington yesterday after cutting short an international scientific voyage taking place off the east coast of New Zealand.
  • Climate change content for school kids gets revamp

    Media release
    Young New Zealanders can now access the most up-to-date educational material about the science of climate change and its impacts on Aotearoa thanks to NIWA’s new web section: 'Climate change information for climate solvers'
  • NIWA Essential Services: COVID-19

    Media release
    NIWA’s priority at all times is on the wellbeing, health and safety of our staff working across the country delivering excellent research and associated science services for the benefit of all New Zealanders.
  • Hotspot Watch 26 March 2020

    Hotspot
  • Scientists get first look at rocks causing slow moving quakes

    Media release
    An ambitious international scientific project to study New Zealand’s largest earthquake fault is now enabling scientists to learn more about slow slip earthquakes happening in subduction zones around the world.
  • Tubeworm discovery in Hauraki Gulf cause for celebration

    Media release
    Scientists mapping the Hauraki Gulf seafloor have discovered huge colonies of tubeworms up to 1.5 metres high and collectively covering hundreds of metres providing vital habitats for plants and animals.
  • Hotspot Watch 18 March 2020

    Hotspot
  • Volunteers needed to unlock historic weather secrets 16 March 2020

    Media release
    NIWA climate scientists are asking for volunteers to help give its historic weather project a quick, sharp boost.
  • Hotspot Watch 11 March 2020

    Hotspot
    Across the North Island, rainfall during the past week was quite variable. Moderate rainfall occurred in the West Coast and Southland. However, rainfall was generally meagre from Marlborough to southern Canterbury.
  • Hotspot Watch 5 March 2020

    Hotspot
    Across the North Island, rainfall during the past week was generally higher than several previous weeks, with many locations receiving 10-20 mm and isolated pockets of 30 mm or more.
  • More snow on glaciers but no good news, say scientists

    Media release
    Scientists have recorded more snow on the South Island glaciers this year, but they warn it is simply a temporary break rather than any good news on the climate change front.