Structure and stratigraphy of the New Caledonia Basin

Abstract

The New Caledonia Basin is a major bathymetric feature extending northwest from Taranaki, New Zealand, between the Challenger Plateau/Lord Howe Rise and the Norfolk Ridge. Interpretations of gravity data and seismic refraction velocities indicate that crustal thinning did not proceed to formation of ocean crust. Rifting was pre-Cenozoic, and may be pre-Cretaceous. Major transverse or transform faults may have accommodated oblique rifting. Cenozoic volcanism was influenced by these earlier structures. Channels and turbidites within the Plio-Pleistocene section reveal the continuation of a submarine distributary system from the Taranaki continental shelf. Seismic stratigraphy, the volume and thicknesses of sediment observed, and the likely maturation levels suggest potential for hydrocarbon accumulations.