Emergence of climate change signals in New Zealand river flows

This study considers the question of when we are likely to see climate change impact on New Zealand river flows. Assessing six hydrological metrics representing annual and season means and annual flood, it found that climate impacts generally emerge after the mid-century, if at all, and in the South Island. Changes in mean winter flows tend to emerge earlier and more extensively than other metrics. This is linked to higher temperatures and the increased westerly airflow across the country which will bring more rain in winter to the west of the South Island.