The fast moving, fault between the Pacific and Indo Australian plates cuts the length this zone (40mm p/a compressing / sliding).  This is a rare opportunity fully experience the features of these wonders as we travel its path crossing it several times. 

We see this rare, on land fault twisting and shattering while concurrently uplifting the towering Southern Alps and bending all the rivers and valleys.  

Earthquakes are common some reveal  frightening stories of disasters.

Studies
We explore the fault at various locations and learn to recognise  its features and effects on the land. We stop in a newly carved glacier valley where we actually see the inside a major moving fault.  We discuss the movements and processes involved.  With familiarization gained here, we will learn to recognise similar situations anywhere in the world.

We also see the processes that form the more common secondary faults and learn about the frequent earthquakes that can damage the towns and roads nearby.  We explore some of the simple ways communities protect themselves from and prepare for these regular  events. 

Local National park information centres help us understand the concepts with photos, dioramas, maps models and diagrams. 

See also:
Tectonics NZ