"Our study shows that climate change, specifically human-induced changes, have affected rainfall patterns across Aotearoa New Zealand already. The number of rainy days has generally decreased, but the number of heavy rainfall days has increased, especially in the South Island, due to greenhouse gas forcing. The intensity of rainfall has also generally increased, with the most extreme rainfall increasing most rapidly.

"Overall, our research highlights that human-induced warming has influenced both the frequency and intensity of rainfall, but changes in weather patterns—also forced by greenhouse gases—complicate the picture. Our work highlights the need for continued research on understanding how rainfall patterns will change with future warming.

"This research was led by Anjali Thomas (recently graduated PhD student) at the University of Canterbury and supported by researchers at Victoria University of Wellington, NIWA and Bodeker Scientific."