Sea-level rise on Aotearoa’s dynamic margin
Te Ao Hou – Our Changing Coast strengthens Aotearoa New Zealand’s ability to anticipate, plan for, and adapt to the impacts of sea-level rise and coastal change. By weaving together mātauranga Māori, mātauranga-ā-pūtaiao, and contemporary scientific knowledge, the programme is delivering more accurate projections, accessible tools, and decision-making frameworks that support culturally grounded and evidence-based coastal adaptation.
Through improved understanding of evolving coastal hazards and greater access to reliable, locally relevant information, the research supports communities, iwi, planners, and decision-makers to manage risk, protect places of cultural and social significance, and make informed long-term decisions. Ultimately, the programme contributes to more resilient, equitable, and sustainable coastal communities and strengthens Aotearoa’s capacity to respond to a changing climate.
Contributors
Dr Mawera Karetai
Collaborators
Subcontracted by The Research Trust of Victoria University of Wellington
- Professor Tim Naish (Programme Co-Leader, Antarctic Research Centre)
- Associate Professor Richard Levy (Programme Co-Leader)
GNS Science
University of Auckland
University of Canterbury
University of Waikato
Oceanum Ltd
Takiwa Ltd
Additional links and publications
Research Overview: Major $13m project to focus on predicting impacts of sea-level rise | News | Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington (wgtn.ac.nz)
Dr Mawera Karetai
Funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation, and Employment