Latest from Niwa

Let the light in: Winter solstice sets us on path to brighter days

It's our shortest day - so how much extra daylight can we expect tomorrow?

Rain a boost for Northland rivers, dams and farmers

Rainfall boosts dam and river levels but till not enough to end drought.

Auckland needs a month of rain to recover from drought

More rain is on the way for Auckland this week - but a whopping 250mm is needed.

Insufficient rain in winter will spell trouble in Northland

Lack of winter rain will force the closure of Whangārei's main water day.

Climate change has already cost NZ almost $1b in droughts and flooding - experts

The cost of climate change is hitting us now, say NZ researchers.

Further water restrictions for Whangārei

Level 3 water restrictions come into force in Whangārei from Thursday.

Rain needed now to avoid tighter restrictions

This week's rain might defer further water restrictions in Whangārei

Recent rain helps but more needed

Fingers crossed in rural areas for more rain as predicted.

Water restrictions in place across regions on verge of drought

Water restrictions are being put in place around the country.

Total fire ban possible if Hawke's Bay's tinder dry conditions continue

It's only going to get hotter in Hawke's Bay and fire and emergency services urge caution.

Induction over and now time for action

Northland firefighters in NSW swing into action.

Areas in mid and Far North received one third of normal rain

Council warns of potential drought in Northland as water restrictions start.

Virginia Lake recommendations: 'We did what was practical'

Niwa report suggests ways to improve Rotokawau/Virginia Lake - some have been tried.

Why NZ urgently must keep a better watch on its oceans

Scientists propose new initiative to keep closer tabs on our fast-changing ocean estate.

Can Dudding Lake be stopped from 'flipping'?

Effort, expense and an unexpected element appear in work to restore the lake.

'Like a freight train': Tornado slams woman against house

A Taranaki farmer has described how a tornado tore through his house.