New Zealand glaciers show no long-term recovery after 50 years of monitoring
Tauranga, March 31 (Yaoxin) — Fifty years after the first aerial survey of glaciers in New Zealand’s Southern Alps, scientists’ latest report shows that although recent late snowfall and variable summer weather have provided some short-term relief, the long-term trend of overall glacier mass loss has not been reversed.
The research teams from GNS Science, Victoria University of Wellington and the Department of Conservation completed their end-of-summer 2026 survey in March. Using aerial photography of hundreds of glaciers, they documented changes in snowline position and ice volume. A statement issued by GNS Science on Tuesday summarised the findings.
GNS Science chief climate scientist Andrew Lorrey noted that the annual snowline and glacier monitoring programme, which began in 1977, continues each year. Although some glaciers retained more snow on their surfaces this season, he said this was “only a temporary respite, not a reversal of the long-term trend of glacier area shrinkage”.
Researchers also reported that 2025 was New Zealand’s fourth-warmest year on record. Globally, the World Meteorological Organization data show that the 2025 average temperature was 1.43 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
The statement emphasised: “A warmer Earth means less ice, and our glaciers are one of the most direct and visible indicators of climate warming.”
“Glaciers are a vital component of New Zealand’s environment, economy and cultural identity,” Lorrey said. “They support the tourism industry, deliver nutrient-rich meltwater to rivers and lakes, and supply water to hydroelectric reservoirs that provide the majority of the country’s renewable electricity.” He called for urgent and decisive action to curb global climate warming and thereby slow the ongoing retreat of the glaciers.
