National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA)

Taihoro Nukurangi where the waters meet the sky is NIWA's Maori name. The name describes the intent of NIWA's work studying the waterways and the interface between the earth and the sky. NIWA's rainbow logo also reflects the intersection of air and water.

The Institute was established in 1992 as one of nine New Zealand Crown Research Institutes. Its mission is to provide a scientific basis for the sustainable management and development of New Zealand's atmospheric, marine and freshwater systems and associated resources.

NIWA operates as a stand-alone company with its own board of directors and its shares held by the Crown its full official name is National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research Ltd. The main areas of expertise are in consultancy and research. These include: Antarctica; aquaculture; atmosphere and climate; biodiversity and biosecurity; biotechnology; coast and oceans; fisheries; freshwater; hazards; pollution; and resource management.

NIWA staff also participate widely in international initiatives, representing New Zealand in such fora as the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the United Nations Environment Programme.

Te Kuwaha o Taihoro Nukurangi The Gateway to NIWA is the name of the Institute's Maori Development Unit. Te Kuwaha acts a liaison with Maori groups and provides a Maori Perspective for NIWA staff.

According to NIWA, “we have much to learn from Maori about their philosophies regarding sustainable management, such as the effectiveness of rotational marine harvesting, the spiritual significance of clean water and good food, and marine husbandry and enhancement.” NIWA is committed to collaboration with Maori tribes (iwi) and commercial ventures.