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

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    Mean number of days of ground frost

    These datasets are available in a range of formats.
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    13 Beach types

    Learn about different kinds of beachs and how they form, with diagrams and examples of each type.
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    Tornadoes in New Zealand - FAQs

    Education Resource
    Some commonly-asked questions about tornadoes in New Zealand.
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    Estimated bycatch

    View data that show reported target catch and estimated bycatch.
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    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.
  • Rig shark

    Research Project
    Rig shark is an important inshore commercial fish species in New Zealand, and we need to understand more about their habitats, movements, nursery grounds and vulnerability to human impacts to ensure they are managed sustainably and their productivity is enhanced.
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    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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    What are greenhouse gases?

    Greenhouse gases are atmospheric gases that intercept long-wave (mainly infrared) radiation emitted from the Earth's surface.