Project Details
Projekt
Multi-scale geophysical investigation of subduction to strike-slip transition, New Zealand
Applicant
Dr. Gareth Crutchley
Subject Area
Geophysics
Geology
Geology
Term
since 2026
Project identifier
Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 564897488
Subduction to strike-slip transition (SSST) zones are common features of Earth’s tectonic plate boundaries, but their structure may be complex and earthquake potential is not well understood. The 2016 Mw7.8 Kaikōura earthquake, a complex upper-plate event in central New Zealand, highlighted major gaps in our understanding of crustal structure and seismic hazard in regions where subduction and strike-slip motions overlap. Using central New Zealand as an example, we will test three hypotheses to provide fundamental new insight into the mechanics of SSST zones. H1: Spatial variability in upper-plate structure and elastic properties control the physical properties and slip behaviour along the megathrust fault that floors the SSST zone. H2: Structural inheritance relating to plate boundary evolution strongly influences the kinematics of contemporary deformation and how strain is distributed throughout the SSST zone. H3: Pronounced changes in upper plate fault connectivity and strike direction, expected in SSST zones, limit the dimensions of upper-plate earthquakes. These hypotheses will probe specific relationships between Earth structure and the slip behaviour of faults in SSST zones. We will test the hypotheses via a multi-scale geophysical investigation employing both reflection and refraction seismic methods. Our findings will advance the understanding of SSST zones in general, and provide underpinning constraints required to improve hazard assessments in these often densely populated regions.
DFG Programme
Infrastructure Priority Programmes
Subproject of
SPP 2520:
Infrastructure area - Research Vessels
Co-Investigators
Professor Dr. Christian Berndt; Dr. Dirk Klaeschen
