Active Geomorphology from Marlborough to Canterbury – How Faults, Landslides and Sediment Cascades have Shaped Contrasting Landscapes

Date: 31 January – 1 February
Leaders: Dr Katie Jones, Dr Andrea Wolter and Dr Andrew Howell

Explore some of the most diverse landscapes across the eastern side of the South Island, which were impacted by the Mw 7.8  Kaikōura earthquake in 2016. On the first day (Coast Day), we will travel by ferry from Wellington to Picton, then drive through the Marlborough Sounds, observing how coastal and hillslope processes influence land use practices. Along the scenic drive along the Kaikōura coastline, we will visit uplifted offshore platforms, active fault traces, and trace dynamic sediment cascades from the Seaward Kaikōura Range to offshore canyons. The second day (Mountains Day) will take us inland to visit several large landslides, more active faults and the beautiful braided rivers of the Canterbury Plains. We will end in Christchurch with a focus on the Quaternary materials beneath of the Canterbury Plains.

Start and finish locations: The trip begins in Wellington and ends in Christchurch.

Start and finish times: Participants need to arrive at the Interislander ferry terminal by latest 6.45 am on January 31^st for an 8.00 am ferry departure. Note that the final check-in time is 7.00 am and you will miss the ferry if you miss check-in! The trip will end in Christchurch ~6 pm on February 1^st (at the latest).

Catering: Two picnic lunches and snacks, dinner on Saturday night and breakfast on Sunday morning will be provided.

What to bring: Water, sun protection (sunhat, sunscreen), warm clothing, water/windproof jacket, walking shoes, personal medication.

What to expect: Short walks on stable ground, including some small hillwalking. Maximum distance walked at any site will be about 500 m.