Telemetry upgrade project

About this project

What is HBRC’s telemetry network?

HBRC's telemetry network is the backbone of our environment and climate monitoring  a region-wide system of sensors that gathers near real-time data on rainfall, river flows and levels, humidity and temperature, wind speed and direction, air quality and more. This steady stream of information flows straight to our team, helping us respond quicker and make more informed calls when conditions turn. 

Why do we need to upgrade it?

Cyclone Gabrielle reminded us how critical good data is during a crisis. We’re upgrading our telemetry network to improve its resilience and performance.

• Dual sensors and comms: Each site will have two sensors and two ways to transmit data.
• Stronger backup systems: Reinforced backup systems so monitoring continues, even if power or one communication path fails.
• Site selection and equipment upgrades: We’re upgrading equipment and will choose our monitoring spots more strategically – for better data, deeper insights and broader coverage.

Together, these improvements will provide more accurate and timely flood forecasts, faster warnings – and strengthen the overall resilience of the network

What does the telemetry network monitor?

The network tracks rainfall, river levels and flows, groundwater, climate patterns, air quality, and more. It includes:

Hydrological data

• 65 surface water level sites
• 43 sites generating river flow data
• 63 rainfall sites
• 34 groundwater monitoring sites.

Climate and atmospheric conditions

• 18 climate stations measuring wind, humidity, temperature and soil conditions
• 4 air quality stations (2 permanent, 2 mobile)
• Plus, a handful of lake and water quality sites, with satellite links and repeaters to keep it all connected.

Note: Many locations host multiple instruments and monitoring stations.

Latest news | June 2026

Our telemetry upgrades continue on time and on budget. Twenty-six are already complete, with another eight at least 80 per cent finished – helping us keep a closer, more reliable watch on 15 rivers and five streams across Hawke’s Bay.