Earthquake Science at University of Otago

Abstract

Since the establishment of University of Otago’s Earthquake Science Chair in early 2016, our activities have been multidisciplinary, comprising: paleoseismology; earthquake statistics; ground motion simulations; seismic hazard modelling; and assistance with evaluating the seismic safety of University buildings. A primary goal of our group is to promote awareness in earthquake science across southern New Zealand, and in particular, the significant hazards posed by the local active faults. We also recognize an urgent need to address the considerable vulnerability of Dunedin’s aging building stock. Collaboration across various University Departments (Geology, Geography, Mathematics and Statistics), School of Surveying, Centre for Sustainability, GNS Science, and Otago Regional Council have greatly facilitated our efforts. Dissemination of information has thus far been by way of technical and public lectures, media interviews, professional groups (e.g. University of Otago’s Seismic Programme Advisory Group), consultancy reports, scientific papers, and an Otago-based international forum on seismic hazard in late 2018. Significant support for our efforts has come from EQC, QuakeCoRE, GNS Science, Contact Energy Ltd, Pacific Gas and Electric Company, and Geoscience Australia.