New Zealand's seas warming faster than global average: report | News

WELLINGTON, Oct 8, 2025 (BSS/AFP) - The seas around New Zealand are warming much faster than global averages, scientists said Wednesday in a new study warning how climate change could batter the island nation. The government study found New Zealand's oceans are growing hotter, turning more acidic and already threatening thousands of coastal homes as sea levels rise. The waters lapping New Zealand are now warming 34 percent faster than global averages, according to the Our Marine Environment report. "Climate change is driving significant changes in our oceans," the report said. "Ocean temperatures are increasing, and marine heatwaves are becoming more frequent, intense and longer-lasting. "Sea-level rise is accelerating at many locations." Researchers have linked global warming to disruptions in...