Has the climate shifted?

Science Centres: Climate

NIWA identified in August 1998 that a significant shift in the New Zealand climate has occurred during the past 20 years. The changes have resulted from a strengthening of highs to the north of New Zealand, squeezing stronger westerly winds over southern and central New Zealand.

Since 1977:

  • The north and east of the North Island has become 10 percent drier and five percent sunnier, with more droughts.
  • The west and south of the South Island has become 10 percent wetter and five percent cloudier, with more damaging floods.
  • Night temperatures continue to rise.
  • Fewer frosts are occurring nation-wide.
  • The retreat of the west coast glaciers has halted but eastern glaciers continue to shrink.

See also the detailed press release.

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