The Prime Minister today announced major changes to the New Zealand science sector. 

Chief Executive Chelydra Percy says GNS and NIWA have a strong history of collaboration. 

“We expect these changes will further cement that relationship, strengthening delivery of science and innovation to foster economic growth and resilience and to support the wellbeing of all New Zealanders”. 

“Government’s focus on growing an even stronger science sector is exciting. Strengthening the sector now will future proof the role of science in the decades to come, and we welcome the opportunity to help shape the new organisation. 

“Our key priority is helping GNS staff understand what this means for them. We will support our staff and continue to work with our clients, partners and stakeholders to deliver our critical science that keeps people safe and helps New Zealand’s communities and economies thrive”. 

NIWA’s CE John Morgan said, “We are very enthusiastic about the changes announced today and initial discussions at Chair and CEO level between NIWA and GNS are already underway.” 

The changes follow Government consideration of the Science System Advisory Group’s (SSAG) first report. That group was charged with presenting a programme of change aimed at building a thriving science, innovation and technology system to position New Zealand for a prosperous future.  

The key change is the formation of four Public Research Organisations (PRO), grouped by area of focus, as follows 

These changes are anticipated to be formulated throughout 2025 and take effect in 2026. NIWA and GNS Science will work collaboratively on the structure and functionality of the Earth Sciences PRO, with oversight from MBIE. 

More information is available on the MBIE website: mbie.govt.nz/science-reforms.