Regarding weather forecasts, have you ever wondered where New Zealand gets its official information? That’s MetService. Here at Featherston Street in Wellington, we stand before the current temporary home of MetService. It is New Zealand’s national meteorological service.
MetService began in 1861. Dr Charles Knight became the first Director of Meteorological Stations. This makes it the country’s oldest continuous scientific institution.
Initially, the focus was on marine forecasting. This was due to frequent shipwrecks around New Zealand’s coasts. In 1874, a storm warning system was established. The first public weather forecasts were then issued.
Forecasting remained a marine service until 1936. It then became part of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. During World War II, the Royal New Zealand Air Force took over. After the war, it became a branch of the Air Department. Later, it was included in the Ministry of Transport in 1968.
In 1992, New Zealand’s scientific institutions were restructured. The New Zealand Meteorological Service was split. Research joined NIWA. Forecasting became MetService.
MetService is a state-owned enterprise. It specialises in operational meteorology. It employs around 300 staff.
MetService produces forecasts and weather warnings. It does so on behalf of the Ministry of Transport. The Civil Aviation Authority of New Zealand certifies it.
Internationally, MetService operates under the MetraWeather brand. This handles media, aviation, and energy business.
The cooperative relationship among national meteorological services is vital. MetService sends observational data to other WMO member countries. This data is used in global weather models.
MetService operates a data collection network. It complies with WMO standards. Data comes from surface observations and upper air observations. Voluntary observing ships and drifting buoys also provide data.
MetService maintains close links with Pacific Island meteorological agencies. It forwards hazardous weather warnings to Radio New Zealand International. It also sends them to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. MetService provides backup for the Regional Specialized Meteorological Center in Nadi, Fiji.
In January 2022, MetService relocated from its Kelburn building. This was due to seismic strengthening costs. The head office and National Forecast Centre moved to temporary premises. These are at Seabridge House on Featherston Street. A 15-year lease at Molesworth St will start in 2025. This will be a resilient and sustainable home for MetService.
In late September 2024, NIWA will acquire MetService. This will streamline weather forecasting services. It will also provide easier access to weather information.
So, the next time you check the weather, remember MetService. It is an essential service. It keeps New Zealand informed and safe.