Lake Ecosystem Research New Zealand (LERNZ) is a collaborative effort between scientists from the University of Waikato and partner organisations, committed to preserving and restoring aquatic ecosystems.
Rooted in limnological principles, our research addresses ecosystem structure and function, scale, connectivity, and processes such as disturbance, flows, and resilience. By employing methodologies like remote sensing, fieldwork, experiments, and modelling, we advance our understanding and management of freshwater ecosystems.
Driven by the imperative to mitigate the impacts of climate change and anthropogenic pressures on aquatic ecosystems, our research investigates topics ranging from biological invasions and habitat restoration to water quality management.
We collaborate with partners across iwi, regional councils, the Department of Conservation, the Ministry for the Environment, and other research institutes.
LakeCast
Funded by the New Zealand Government Smart Idea grant UOWX2434, (2024-2027).
Led by University of Waikato, in collaboration with Te Arawa Lakes Trust and Bay of Plenty Regional Council.
LakeCast aims to develop improved predictive and forecasting tools for lake water quality (including cyanobacteria blooms) in Lake Rotorua. It leverages advances in machine learning, ecosystem modelling, and high-frequency sensor data. There is an emphasis on ensuring that outcomes are both scientifically robust and practically valuable for those invested in protecting Lake Rotorua and understanding its ecological dynamics.
Quantifying Algal Biomass in Lake Rotorua: Laboratory-Based Chlorophyll-a Analysis Across Space and Time.
This study by Kendall Williams over the 2025–2026 summer period aimed to
- Quantify spatial and temporal variability in shoreline algal biomass using laboratory-based chlorophyll-a (chl-a) analysis.
- Validate a hand-held fluorescence sensor (FluoroQuik) against laboratory measurements to assess suitability for rapid operational monitoring.
An Ecosystem Modelling Platform to Assist New Zealand Lake Management
Funded by the New Zealand Government Smart Idea grant UOWX2103, (2021-2024).
Led by the University of Waikato, the platform integrates data from Regional Councils, NIWA, Freshwater Ecosystems of New Zealand (FENZ), and Land Information New Zealand (LINZ), alongside satellite remote sensing, to enable scenario simulations for up to 1,500 lakes.
Read more about the Ecosystem modelling platform for New Zealand lakes.