EBOFEarth beneath our feet - 3D Geological Models of New Zealand

Three-dimensional computer modelling has been developed at GNS Science over the past 20 years with the long-term aims of understanding the geometry, fluid flows and layer properties of geological units in the Taupo Volcanic Zone (TVZ).

These models have applications in assessment of groundwater resources. For example restoration of Lake Rotorua water quality requires a good understanding of the groundwater system because groundwater plays a key role in the transport of nutrients from the land to Lake Rotorua. The 3D geological model of the Lake Rotorua catchment includes the formations that are important for groundwater flow and is used in the development of a groundwater flow model of the catchment.