Gravity faulting as a mechanism of topographic adjustment

Abstract

Small discontinuous scarps, invariably facing ridges, are described from near Arthurs Pass and have been noted along the length of the main dividing ranges of the South Island. These are deduced to be the result of gravitational adjustment of topography of high relief oversteepened by past glaciation in greywacke and low-grade schist. This readjustment is thought to be triggered by earthquakes. They are not tectonic in origin and care must be taken to differentiate these scarps from those of tectonic origin.