The QMAP programme is improving our knowledge of the geology of New Zealand by mapping and exploring relationships between rock types and their geological origins. The programme, through compilation of existing data and new fieldwork, will complete and publish the remaining ten of the 21 1:250 000 geological maps and accompanying texts by 2010. These maps are Whangarei, Waikato, Rotorua, Taranaki, Hawkes Bay, Kaikoura, Aoraki, Christchurch, Haast and Fiordland. Completed QMAP sheets are Kaitaia, Auckland, Raukumara, Nelson, Wellington, Wairarapa, Greymouth, Wakatipu, Waitaki, Murihiku and Dunedin. The geological mapping will be supported by dedicated research on the basement rocks in poorly-known and geologically complex parts of southwest and eastern New Zealand.
The GIS database behind each geological map will ultimately be integrated into a seamless national geological database. The completed QMAP geological GIS will be accessible to the New Zealand public in vector and raster formats, and will be maintained and updated as a Nationally Significant Database.
The programme compiles, interprets and disseminates underpinning research across a range of geological disciplines with a goal to better understand natural hazards and earth resources such as mineral, groundwater and petroleum. QMAP data are an essential foundation for other science programmes, and key users include central, regional and local government, mineral and petroleum exploration companies, insurance and utility companies, universities, consultants and the general public. QMAP is undertaking research specifically relevant to and involving Mâori including identification of resource potential and geological hazard, and transfer of GIS and mapping skills to wânanga and rûnanga.
Objectives
1. The QMAP national geological database
2. QMAP eastern geological provinces
3. QMAP western geological provinces
