THE GEOLOGY OF NEW ZEALAND
Geology of a Region (GEO 329)
Block 6, February 2012
Prof. Rhawn Denniston (RDenniston@CornellCollege.edu)
Prerequisite Courses
Physical Geology (GEO 111)
Historical Geology (GEO 112)
Tectonics (GEO 214)
Note: Historical Geology is a prerequisite for Tectonics but you may take Tectonics PRIOR to
taking Historical Geology in order to participate in this course.
Where You’ll Be
Most of the course will be held near the beautiful shores of Golden Bay in the northern tip of the
South Island of New Zealand. We will also take trips to the Westlands to examine the
climatically-important Franz Joseph glacier, to Nelson Lakes where stream terraces are offset
by shifting tectonic plates, and up and over the Southern Alps to the Canterbury Plains.
What You’ll Learn
Geologic field mapping techniques
- Principles of plate tectonics
The natural history of one of the world’s most geologically interesting areas
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Trip Cost
~$3300
(includes everything: airfare, accommodations, meals, van rental, glacier hike)
The 2004 group at the start of a multi-day mapping
project along the shores of beautiful Golden Bay.
The group near the base of Franz Joseph glacier.