Geomorphic classification of estuaries (Hume & Herendorf (1988))

Classification Title	Geomorphic classification of estuaries (Hume & Herdendorf (1988))
Keywords Type1. Type 11.	New Zealand, estuaries, geomorphology
Abstract	The classification has 2 tiers. Estuaries are initially divided into 5 classes according to the primary processes that shaped the basin forming the estuary, before the basin was modified by Holocene depositional processes. The classes are: fluvial erosion marine erosion tectonism volcanism glacial activity Within each of these classes there is further subdivision into 16 types based on the geomorphic and oceanographic characteristics of the estuary, particularly those of the tidal inlet, and catchment hydrology. Compound estuaries are a combination of 2 or more of the basic types. Each of the estuary types is illustrated and key attributes identified. Hume and Herdendorf found that the throat cross sectional area-tidal prism relationship of a sample of estuaries supported the classification and indicated that the classification reflects estuarine hydrological processes.
Geographical coverage	New Zealand - It was developed by mapping estuaries on the northeast coast of the North Island and expanded to cover NZ estuaries generally
Status/currency	Complete

Technical Evaluation
Scale of Use	1:250,000-1:50,000
GIS Compatibility	?
Contributing databases and relationships	N/a
Available formats for users	Published paper
Access constraints	Freely available
Contact person.	Terry Hume
Address Phone Fax Email	NIWA Box 11-115 Hamilton 64 7 856 7026 64 7 856 0151 t.hume@niwa.cri.nz
References	Hume, T.M.; Herdendorf, C.E. 1988. A geomorphic classification of estuaries and its application to coastal resource management- a New Zealand example. Ocean and Shoreline Management 11: 249-274.

Classification Title