Science Hui informs communities about proposed Hikurangi Research Programme

Communities on the East Coast of the North Island will get the opportunity to find out more about a research programme focusing on Aotearoa’s largest fault the Hikurangi subduction zone next week.

Scientists from GNS Science, NIWA, and Massey University will be in Tairāwhiti from 20-23rd June to share their proposed research with communities in Muriwai, Gisborne, Tolaga and Ruatoria.

These scientists are part of a large team of national and international scientists who will be studying the Hikurangi plate boundary that lies just off the East Coast over the coming years. This research programme will help to understand Aotearoa’s largest earthquake/tsunami hazard and the risk it poses to communities along the East Coast.

Scientists will do short, informative presentations on the Hikurangi plate boundary, past earthquakes and tsunamis, mātauranga māori, and the tools they will be using to do this research, including sea floor monitoring, scientific drilling and seismic imaging.

Following the presentations, those that attend will have the opportunity to ask questions to find out more about the research programme.

The Hikurangi hui are being supported by GNS Science, NIWA, Massey University, He Oranga Trust, Tamanuhiri Tutu Poroporo Trust, Gisborne District Council, and East Coast LAB.

• Muriwai: Muriwai Marae from 5.30pm -7.30pm on Tuesday 20^th June
• Gisborne: Waikanae Surf Life Saving Club from 5.30pm-7.30pm on Wednesday 21st June
• Tolaga: Tologa Fire Station from 12 noon-2.00pm on Thursday 22^nd June
• Ruatoria: Kariaka Pa from 5.00pm-7.00pm on Thursday 22^nd June

The ‘Hikurangi Subduction Earthquakes and Slip Behaviour’ research programme is funded by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE).

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