Plate Tectonics of Zealandia

Professor Sutherland explains how scientific drilling and exploration in this area has provided new insight into how plate tectonics work.

Inaugural lecture—Professor Rupert Sutherland

July 2018

Plate tectonics affects basic features of life on Earth, from our landscapes to our climates, hazards and natural resources. Earthquakes, volcanoes and mountain formations reveal glimpses of active tectonic processes. However, new research into the reshaping of the poorly known Zealandia continent between 50 and 20 million years ago (the largest plate reshuffle we know about) is providing fresh insights into plate tectonics.

Professor Rupert Sutherland explains how scientific drilling and exploration in this area has provided new insight into how plate tectonics work.

This is Professor Sutherland’s inaugural lecture as Professor of Tectonics and Geophysics at Victoria University of Wellington.

Our public lecture series gives you the opportunity to engage with the latest thinking on the world’s major issues. To stay informed of upcoming public lecture at Victoria University of Wellington, sign up to the public lecture mailing list.