The Government is looking to integrate the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) and the MetService to improve the weather forecasting system for New Zealand.
Science, Innovation & Technology Minister, Judith Collins says the Government has agreed in-principle to NIWA acquiring the MetService, with the MetService retaining its role as New Zealand’s authorised meteorologist, subject to further work being completed.
“Having a strong weather forecasting system which combines weather forecasting science with land and hydrological system sciences through to daily public weather updates will help us meet the current and future demands of New Zealanders,” Ms Collins says.
“Our weather forecasting system is critically important, not only to give us warning of severe weather so that we can prepare, but for daily operations of the aviation, marine and energy industries, and many businesses across New Zealand. It is crucial that our capabilities are streamlined in order to ensure that it is easy to access information about the weather from a single trusted source.
“Extreme weather events in 2023 resulted in a tragic loss of life. These events cost nearly $12 billion in economic terms and $5 billion in insured loss. The Weather Forecasting System Review found that there is a compelling case for change.”
The Minister said that bringing together the science around climate, weather forecasting, hydrology, and coastal hazards will improve our understanding and allow us to better prepare for, and respond to, severe weather events.
“More work is needed before this change can happen. We have asked officials at the Treasury and the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to work with the MetService and NIWA to provide implementation details as soon as possible.”
“A more streamlined system will increase safety, improve efficiencies and support a future focused weather forecasting system that works for all New Zealanders,” she said.
In a statement, NIWA said there was more work to be done to implement the in-principle decision.
“It will require changes to legislation, and we are working closely with MBIE and Treasury and MetService to ensure our weather forecasting system is set-up to provide the best service for New Zealand into the future.”
“We anticipate that legislation will be introduced in mid-2025 and the exact timing of any change will depend on the progress of this legislation through Parliament and of the process that follows. It will not happen overnight. More information on when a Bill will be introduced is expected in 2025 and we will keep you updated.Â
“We know our weather forecasting system is critically important, not only to give us warning of severe weather so that we can prepare, but for daily operations of the aviation, marine and energy industries and many businesses across New Zealand. It will be critical to ensure adequate capability is in place to maintain continuity of weather forecasting services, particularly during this transition and this will be top of mind as we work through the process.”
