Our science

NIWA's scientific research and services are delivered by our nine national centres and two management centres. Each science centre conducts a range of research aimed at delivering high-quality outcomes for New Zealand.

Aquaculture

NIWA has the largest team of aquaculture specialists and dedicated facilities in New Zealand.

Atmosphere

World class research, contributing to our understanding of greenhouse gases, ozone depletion, and urban air pollution.

Climate

Information about our varying climate is critical for managing resources and reducing risks.

Coasts and Oceans

NIWA aims to provide the knowledge needed for the sound environmental management of our marine resources.

Environmental Information

Consistent, accurate and easily accessible data are fundamental to effective environmental science.

Fisheries

Balancing the sustainability of our fisheries stocks and the impacts of fishing on the environment with the economic opportunities they offer is an ongoing challenge.

Freshwater and Estuaries

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

Natural Hazards

Nature can be a destructive force. Our science will prevent property damage and save lives.

Pacific Rim

NIWA’s environmental science helps contribute to sustainable development in the Asia-Pacific region.

Te Kūwaha - Māori Environmental Research

Sharing knowledge with Māori communities and empowering Māori business with the latest science.

Vessels

NIWA's vessels are world class environmental monitoring and research platforms.

Antarctica

NIWA scientists have worked for many years on Antarctic atmospheric processes and aquatic ecosystems.

Voyages

NIWA leads many ocean research voyages from the tropical waters of the Pacific to Antarctica. This page highlights some of these voyages.