New Zealand
- NIWA could acquire MetService to create a more efficient weather forecasting system.
- The integration aims to combine forecasting science with hydrology and coastal hazard expertise.
- Officials will provide further implementation details to support this streamlined approach.
The New Zealand Government is considering a significant overhaul of the country's weather forecasting system. Science, Innovation & Technology Minister Judith Collins revealed plans for the National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (NIWA) to acquire MetService in an effort to improve weather prediction and response capabilities.
“We have 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,” Ms Collins said.
The integration will combine expertise in weather forecasting with hydrological and land system sciences. This aims to provide better public weather updates, allowing New Zealanders to meet the increasing demands for accurate weather information.
“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,” Collins added. “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.”
Collins highlighted the devastating impact of extreme weather events in 2023, which led to significant economic losses and tragically, the loss of lives. “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,” she said.
Combining climate, hydrology, and coastal hazard sciences with weather forecasting is expected to strengthen the country’s ability to prepare for and respond to severe weather events. Ms Collins emphasised that more work is required before the change is fully implemented. “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,” she said.
“A more streamlined system will increase safety, improve efficiencies and support a future focused weather forecasting system that works for all New Zealanders,” Collins concluded.