Scientists counting down to MethaneSAT satellite launch
NIWA scientists leading New Zealand’s MethaneSAT agricultural emissions science programme are gearing up for the launch of its satellite.
NIWA is forecasting a warm, early spring. Temperatures over the August to October period are "very likely" to be above average in the North Island regions and in the north of the South Island. They are "likely" to be average or above average in the east and west of the South Island.
Nevertheless, cold snaps, frost and snow conditions will still occur in many areas from time to time, as is typical of this time of year. Sea surface temperatures are also forecast to be above average along the east coast of New Zealand and further offshore, with conditions close to average to the west and in the Tasman Sea.
Rainfall for the August–October is forecast to be normal or above normal in the east and north of the North Island and the west of the South Island, while normal or below normal rainfall is likely for the west of the North Island and the north of the South Island.
Normal rainfall is expected for the east of the South Island. Soil moisture levels and river flows are likely to be normal or below normal in the north of the South Island and the west of the North Island, normal or above normal in the north and east of the North Island as well as the west of the South Island. Normal soil moisture levels and river flows are forecast for the east of the South Island.
The equatorial Pacific Ocean remains in a neutral state (neither El Niño nor La Niña) despite some patterns reminiscent of a weak La Niña. International guidance indicates that neutral conditions are the most likely outcome over the coming three months.
Higher pressures than normal are forecast south of the country, while lower pressures than normal are expected to the north over Australia and the Coral Sea. This circulation pattern is expected to produce a weaker than normal westerly flow over New Zealand.
Fonterra has cemented its position as the country’s number one cheesemaker by picking up nine NZ Champion of Cheese trophies this year.
New Zealand dairy processors are welcoming the Government’s commitment to continuing to push for Canada to honour its trade commitments.
An educational programme, set up by Beef + Land New Zealand, to connect farmers virtually with primary and intermediate school students has reported the successful completion of its second year.
The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) has welcomed a resolution adopted by the United Nations (UN) General Assembly to declare 2026 International Year of the Woman Farmer.
Waikato herd health veterinarian Katrina Roberts is the 2024 Fonterra Dairy Woman of the Year.
Horticulture NZ chief executive Nadine Tunley will step down in August.
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