Coastal Restoration Trust of New Zealand

Coastal Dune Ecosystem Reference Database

Lake Quatenary shorelines near Lake Ellesmere, Canterbury, New Zealand

Author
Armon, J.W.
Year
1974
Journal / Source
New Zealand Journal of Geology and Geophysics
Volume
17
Number
1
Pages
63-73
Summary
Detailed study of the Kaitorete barrier enclosing Lake Ellesmere suggests that barrier formation took place 6 000-7 000 years ago when sea level was still rising in this area. Relic cliffs and shore platforms west of Birdlings Flat date from the last interglacial or earlier. Barrier development has now ceased and shore-line erosion is extending eastwards across the barrier.