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High-resolution climate projections using physics and AI -
NIWA is using updated climate projections to help New Zealanders better understand climate-related risks -
Welcome to Earth Sciences New Zealand -
Play our new online game! Can you navigate through a lifetime of climate change? -
High-resolution climate projections using physics and AI
-
NIWA is using updated climate projections to help New Zealanders better understand climate-related risks
-
Welcome to Earth Sciences New Zealand
-
Play our new online game! Can you navigate through a lifetime of climate change?
What’s new
All News-
First known green turtle feeding habitat confirmed in NZ
Media release22 October 2025Scientists have used drones to video green turtles feeding in New Zealand waters for the first time. -
Discovery of new marine sponges a ‘huge surprise’
Media release21 October 2025A research team exploring marine sponges in Fiordland has found half of the 82 sponge specimens collected during a recent trip are new to science. -
New research to understand the impact of marine heatwaves on fisheries
Media release15 October 2025A new report has outlined how gradual long-term warming of the waters around New Zealand, and an increase in short-term heat events, are likely under different greenhouse gas emission scenarios. -
Antarctic methane discoveries skyrocket
Media release10 October 2025New methane seeps are being discovered at an astonishing rate in Antarctic waters. -
Wetlands win proves power of partnership to improve water quality
Media release06 October 2025Constructed wetlands project receives NZ award for environmental sustainability. -
Warming oceans prompt major overhaul of how we monitor El Niño and La Niña
Media release01 October 2025Global warming is changing how we monitor one of the world’s biggest climate drivers, says Earth Sciences New Zealand.
The floating robots helping us respond to environmental change
The floating robots helping us respond to environmental change
Who we are
Taihoro Nukurangi. From the bottom of the ocean to the top of the atmosphere and everything in between: NIWA's climate, freshwater and marine science helps develop solutions to the world's environmental problems and enhance the economic value and sustainable management of New Zealand’s aquatic resources and environments. Decision makers at all levels are seeking evidence-based analysis and advice from environmental experts. NIWA’s science provides high quality insights to underpin important decisions, and innovative solutions. NIWA has staff located across 16 different locations in New Zealand and overseas.
Our research
NIWA's purpose is to enhance the economic value and sustainable management of New Zealand’s aquatic resources and environments, and improve our understanding of climate and the atmosphere, to increase resilience to weather and climate hazards.
Our partners
NIWA has working relationships with hundreds of organisations in New Zealand and overseas, from Iwi to government and other research organisations. Most of NIWA’s revenue comes from contestable research funding and commercial consultancy work.
Education
NIWA supports education at all levels in New Zealand, from school programmes and science fairs to professional development. Providing resources for students and teachers is part of NIWA's commitment to helping young New Zealanders discover more about science and technology.
How can we help?
We offer a range of services to iwi, government, councils, businesses, organisations and individuals. We provide access to major environmental monitoring systems, datasets and tools. We can provide evidence to underpin decision making, help you manage operations and reduce the impacts of our changing climate.