Research

NIWA has produced a high-resolution regional atmospheric reanalysis dataset, the New Zealand Reanalysis (NZRA).

Floods are New Zealand’s most frequent and costly natural disaster. Fast and accurate forecasting of flood impacts is crucial for reducing the risk to life, property, and infrastructure.

Investigating the effectiveness of an acoustic bubble-screen in minimising the movement of pest fish

Developing the monitoring and evaluation approaches that respond to the hauanga kai aspirations of Ngaati Mahuta

Developing a snowmelt forecast system to enable more accurate and confident forecasts of river flow and alpine hazards.

NIWA researchers are testing new methods for quantifying methane emissions from agriculture and waste.

Cyclone Gabrielle resulted in the transport of vast amounts of freshwater, sediment and debris to the marine environment of Te Matau-a-Māui/Hawkes Bay and Tairāwhiti/Gisborne regions. 

Transforming coastal lowland systems threatened by sea-level rise into prosperous communities

This project aims to establish connections between weather and river flow forecasting, inundation prediction and risks to people and assets.

Understanding the trends in recreational fisheries is key to ensuring sustainable fisheries across the country.

The Tongan deepwater demersal line fishery is a valuable source of income, livelihood, and social well-being for the people of Tonga. The fishery has a history of boom-and-bust cycles with fluctuating catches and poor economic returns.

Updated 2025 – guidance for water quality monitoring in rivers, lakes and estuaries