On 1 July 2025, NIWA merged with GNS Science to become Earth Sciences New Zealand.

  • Water quality tools

    Find out more about our water quality tools.
  • Blogs

    Follow NIWA's scientists as they explore the natural world, make new discoveries and share how people use their science.
  • Waikato

    Waikato exhibits a range of climates due to the variety of landscapes in the region.
  • UV index signage at Lauder

    UV Index Information

    Education Resource
    The UV Index is a measure of the intensity of UV radiation. The UV Index supersedes the idea of "Time to Burn" or "Burn Time", which has been used previously in New Zealand.
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    Suspended-sediment yield estimator

    This national GIS ‘layer’ enables reconnaissance-scale estimation of suspended-sediment yields from New Zealand’s rivers and streams. It has been developed by NIWA in collaboration with Landcare Research.
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    What ails our estuaries - problems and solutions

    Estuaries are at the bottom of the freshwater drainage network and, effectively, are a part of it.
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    Kōura

    There are two species of kōura or freshwater crayfish in Aotearoa.
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    Infectious substances

    Waterways can easily become contaminated by pathogens when effluent is discharged nearby.
  • Antarctic diver and jellyfish

    Statement of Core Purpose

    The Statement of Core Purpose spells out why the Government owns Crown Research Institutes and what it expects from them.
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    Tsunami

    Education Resource
    Tsunami is a Japanese word meaning great wave in harbour.
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    Map N South

    Education Resource
    As much of this climate zone is sheltered by high country to the west, south and in some areas to the east, it is the sunniest region of New Zealand.
  • Restoration and enhancement of piharau / kanakana / lamprey

    Research Project
    NIWA is leading a new six-year research project that seeks to increase our understanding of piharau/kanakana/lamprey, using Mātauranga Māori, social science and biophysical science approaches.