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Database Title

11.3 Geological Maps of New Zealand:
1. 1:1,000,000;
2. 1:250 000;
3. 1:50 000
Keywords
Type1.
Type 11.		 Geology, maps
Lithology
Abstract These databases depict surface geology at different scales. Usually units less than 10 m thick are ignored especially if they are on top of hard rock.
Geographical Coverage
  1. New Zealand
  2. 20% New Zealand
  3. less than 10% New Zealand
Dataset start date. The field collection of data took place from the 1970s on. Digitising of data:
  1. 1996
  2. 1995 onwards
  3. 1995 onwards
Dataset end date. Current
Status/currency.
  1. Completed
  2. 2006?
  3. In progress
Update frequency. N/A
Maintenance. 2. This is the only map series where there is commitment to complete the data set because there is PGSF funding.

 

Technical Evaluation

  
Parameters- what is measured Field notes are made on:
  • rock units
  • boundaries between rock units
  • faults
  • structure of rock
  • orientation of some rocks
Parameters- what is calculated Geological classes
Methods used to measure parameters Notes are made in the field of rock units, boundaries between rock units, faults, structure of rock, and orientation of some rocks. The observations are plotted on maps at points. Homogeneous units are then inferred and classes defined on the map sheet.
Secondary sources of data Relevant published / unpublished information.
Scale of use. As in title.
Number of records There are approximately 350 000 points.
GIS compatibility.
  1. All digitised
  2. All digitised
  3. Data is being digitised from old map sheets as funds become available.
Available formats for users. Published map sheet and description. CD if on GIS
Access constraints. A charging policy is being worked out. There may be restriction on access to some point data (e.g. the copyright for some data does not belong with IGNS)
Measurement Accuracy
  1. Variable, derived from sources of variable scale and accuracy
  2. Variable, derived from sources of variable scale and accuracy.
  3. Variable, dependent on author's experience and age of map
Completeness of dataset To be completed by database manager.
Positional accuracy
  • Well located points within 1000m of actual position
  • Well located points within 250m of actual position
  • Well located points within 50m of actual position.
Database steward IGNS
Database custodian IGNS
Database custodian contact person David Heron
Database custodian Contact
Address
Phone
Fax
Email		 P.O. Box 30 368
Lower Hutt
+64 4 570 4610
+64 4 570 4600
d.heron@gns.cri.nz
References
  1. 1:1 million scale maps: Suggate, R.P.; Stevens, G.R.; Te Punga, M.T. (eds) 1978. Geology of New Zealand. Government Printer: Wellington. 2 vols, 820p.
  2. An example of 1:250 000 scale maps: Rattenbury, M.S.; Cooper, R.A. Johnston, M.R.(compilers) 1998. Geology of the Nelson area. Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences 1:250 000 geological map 9. 1 sheet + 67p. Lower Hutt, New Zealand: Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences Limited.
  3. An example of 1:50 000 scale maps: Begg, J.G.; Mazengarb, C. 1996. Geology of the Wellington area, scale 1:50 000. Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences geological map 22. 1 sheet + 128p. Lower Hutt, New Zealand: Institute of Geological and Nucleus Sciences Limited.
Date metadata record prepared. October 1999
Author of metadata record. Victoria Froude

 

Management Evaluation

  
Original purpose.
  1. To provide a geological synthesis for New Zealand at a national scale.
  2. To provide a new geological compilation at a more useful scale (1:250,000). This was identified as a priority by FRST.
  3. To provide more detailed geological mapping for areas of high scientific importance and/or areas with high population numbers.
Relationships with classification systems. Rocks are grouped firstly on the basis of age and secondly on lithology. Lithology becomes increasingly important at more detailed scales of mapping.
Relationships with other databases Information from other databases is used including:
  • fossil record file
  • resource map of New Zealand(mines and quarries)
  • active faults database
Known relationships with proposed EPIP indicators. N/A
Who uses this database? The polygons are used in other projects including:
  • ground shaking hazard
  • landslide stability
  • mineral prospectivity

Geological map databases are used by regional councils, district councils, consultants and a variety of other scientists.  

Public awareness of the database Some inquiries are made to the Web Site. Information on the database is presented at scientific conferences.
Database strengths.
  • The geological map databases are compiled using the knowledge of many of the best geologists in New Zealand.
  • The older maps were prepared when there was unlimited field time.
  • Those preparing the geological map databases have access to quality aerial photographs and a comprehensive library.
  • The data on the maps has been peer reviewed prior to publication.
Database limitations.
  • The maps contain interpreted data, not the base data. The database on which the maps are based includes both base data (observations) and interpretation.
  • Even at a 1:50,000 scale the boundary representations are not accurate. Most maps were originally compiled pre- GIS and so their accuracy is less than 50 metres(in contrast to property boundaries).
  • Even at a 1:50,000 scale small areas are exaggerated or ignored.

 

 

What are the Current and Emerging Uses of the Database for:

  
Assisting with determining historic state/baseline. This database shows changes in interpretation rather than changes in geology.
Assisting with determining current state/baseline. The database shows current geology.
Assisting with modeling possible future outcomes. The database is being used for modeling purposes. For example assessing the outcomes with different geological event scenarios.
Risk assessment. The geological map database is assisting in the determination of: ground shaking amplification; land sliding and liquefaction hazard.
Monitoring site selection and sample design. There is no sample design in geology.
Aggregating and reporting data locally, regionally or nationally.
  1. The 1:1 million scale map aggregates geological information from previous maps.
  2. The 1:250,000 scale maps will be aggregated to the 1:1 million scale when they are completed.