A magnificent new book on earth science in New Zealand went on sale in bookstores this week.
A Continent on the Move is published by the Geological Society of New Zealand in association with government-owned research and consultancy organisation GNS Science.
Billed as the most comprehensive book on New Zealand geoscience in several decades, it explores the dynamic features of the New Zealand landscape and the submerged realm of the continent of Zealandia.
The 388-page book celebrates the achievements of New Zealand geoscientists from the founding of the country to the present day. It shows how geoscience research has contributed to a safer, more prosperous, and more comfortable lifestyle for everyone.
Written in an accessible style and with more than 750 stunning photographs and illustrations, the book allows a wide range of readers to readily grasp scientific concepts. However, it keeps faithful to the scientific literature and readers will regularly come across terms such as ‘tectonic’, ‘magma’ and ‘terrane’.
The book is subdivided into over 100 snapshot articles written by an impressive lineup of 122 specialist contributors. These bite-sized sections fit comfortably into 13 themed chapters. There is an extensive glossary at the rear of the book that provides helpful definitions of the technical terms used throughout. Also at the rear is a recommended reading list and a page of useful websites.
Chief Editor Ian Graham, of GNS Science, says the book has a dual purpose – to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Geological Society of New Zealand, and to provide a useful guide to the diverse applications of geoscience in today’s society.
“It can be enjoyed for its interesting and varied scientific content, or simply for the accessible explanations of geological phenomena found in New Zealand,” Dr Graham said.
“I hope this book helps to further enlighten policy-makers and the public, as well as providing an inspiration to future generations of geoscientists.”
The book explains that geologically, New Zealand is an exposed fragment of a large continental landmass – Zealandia – split by the boundary of two large geological plates. It is directly in the path of the moisture-laden winds of the ‘Roaring Forties’.
This means New Zealand experiences frequent earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, floods, rapid erosion, and landslides. New Zealand also has supplies of natural resources – metallic minerals, coal oil, gas, and water.
“This puts New Zealand in the position of being both ‘the best of worlds and the worst of worlds’.”
Dr Graham says the book explains what makes New Zealand tick geologically, and illustrates the ways that geoscience research can make this country and better place in which to live.
“More than that, New Zealand offers a superb natural laboratory for studying active tectonic processes. In more than 150 years of study, New Zealand geoscientists have discovered much about the way the Earth works.
“This knowledge is vital as the global community faces major environmental challenges in the coming decades. This includes sound use of dwindling energy, water, and mineral resources, and the threats of geological hazards and climate change.”
Dr Graham says A Continent on the Move will be equally at home on any coffee table as well as in schools and universities.
“It will also enable politicians, planners, and developers to make more informed decisions about appropriate land use and sound use of resources, as well as protection against geological hazards.”
The many superb graphics and illustrations in the book were prepared by GNS Science graphic designer Andrew Gray, who also oversaw the design of the book.
The book is available for sale from GNS Science for $50, plus $5 for postage and packaging. Contact: sales@gns.cri.nz
