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Is Banks Peninsula volcano extinct?
The Banks Peninsula Volcano is an extinct volcanic complex to the east of Christchurch on New Zealand’s South Island.
When did Banks Peninsula erupt?
between 10 and 15 million years ago
Banks Peninsula first emerged as an island thrust out of the sea by volcanic eruptions estimated to have started between 10 and 15 million years ago.
How big was the Banks Peninsula volcano?
Originally Banks Peninsula was an island, but it became tied to the Canterbury Plains at some late stage in geological history when the growing alluvial plain reached its base. Akaroa is the larger volcano and probably reached a height of over 4,500 ft.
What type of geological feature is Banks Peninsula?
Banks Peninsula is a peninsula of volcanic origin on the east coast of the South Island of New Zealand. It has an area of approximately 1,150 square kilometres (440 sq mi) and encompasses two large harbours and many smaller bays and coves.
What is so special about Banks Peninsula?
Banks Peninsula is one of New Zealand’s most unique landforms. With endless hills, bays and hidden bush, this is Nature’s Playground right on Christchurch’s doorstep. Akaroa and its surrounds are steeped in Māori and settler history, adventures and unique experiences.
Why is it called Banks Peninsula?
Events In History Cook sighted Banks Peninsula from the Endeavour. The following day he decided it was an island, which he named for the expedition’s botanist, Joseph Banks.
What is Banks Peninsula known for?
Stunning Geographical Features. Banks Peninsula is one of the most striking geographical features of the South Island comprised of the remnants of 2 volcanoes. The peninsula has a roughly circular shape with many bays and the two deep harbours of Lyttelton and Akaroa.
What created Banks Peninsula?
For most of its existence, Banks Peninsula has indeed been an island, formed between eleven and eight million years ago by the eruptions of two volcanoes, whose craters today form Lyttelton and Akaroa Harbours.