Gravity Observations For: A New Basin Depth Map of the Fault-Bound Wellington CBD Based on Residual Gravity Anomalies

Published: 26 October 2021| Version 1 | DOI: 10.17632/j2txy867b4.1
Contributor:
Alistair Stronach

Description

This is the dataset of gravity observations for the paper: A New Basin Depth Map of the Fault-Bound Wellington CBD Based on Residual Gravity Anomalies. Abstract: A new basin-depth map for the Wellington Central Business District shows a maximum depth of 540 m near the Wellington Stadium. Our new basin geometry constraints are from a residual gravity anomaly study, based on ~600 new gravity observations. Residual gravity anomalies are as large as -6.2 mGal with uncertainties <0.1 mGal. Two-dimensional gravity models constrained by boreholes that intersect basement are used to generate the basin depth map. Our maximum depth is twice that previously estimated from other geological and geophysical criteria. An onshore extension of the recently discovered Aotea Fault on the western side of Mt Victoria, is also interpreted from the gravity data. A maximum basement offset of up to 130 m and gravity anomaly gradients up to 8 mGal/km are observed across the fault. A secondary splay off the main Aotea Fault is identified in the NW corner of Mt Victoria, and a possible extension to the Lambton Fault is identified beneath the Wellington Railway Station. This new basin depth and fault trace data provide valuable constraints to models of seismic hazard assessment for Wellington City. This dataset replicates data published with the thesis: Basin Depth Mapping Beneath Wellington City Based on Residual Gravity Anomalies (Stronach, 2021. https://doi.org/10.26686/wgtn.15176061.v1), as well as including additional data collected since the publication of the thesis.

Files

Steps to reproduce

All observations were made using a Scintrex CG-6. Terrain corrections are calculated to 28 km, and include a building correction and bathymetry. Stations were tied to the New Zealand Gravity Network through the station at GNS Science, Avalon.

Institutions

Victoria University of Wellington

Categories

Geophysics, Earthquake Hazard, Basin, Gravity Anomaly

Licence