The Rise and Fall of the Southern Alps

Discover the geological narrative of New Zealand's Southern Alps with 'The Rise and Fall of the Southern Alps.' Authored by renowned geologist Glen Coates, with illustrations by Geoffrey Cox, this engaging book intricately explores the science behind the formation, erosion, and ongoing transformation of one of New Zealand's most iconic landmarks. Covering a span of 150 pages, 'The Rise and Fall of the Southern Alps' offers an accessible yet comprehensive account of how ancient marine sediments rose to shape the stunning landscapes we admire today. The Southern Alps, or Ka Tiritiri o te Moana, define the South Island, creating unique climates and ecosystems on both the eastern and western sides. The book showcases striking color photographs and artwork, bringing the tales of rivers, glaciers, and tectonic activity to life. Ideal for geology enthusiasts, students, and anyone curious about New Zealand’s natural heritage, this paperback is an excellent addition to your bookshelf. Understand the restless earth's powerful forces through vivid storytelling and expert illustrations, making it perfect for educational environments and casual readers alike. Delve into a well-illustrated journey through time, nature, and the breathtaking Southern Alps.

Author: Glen Coates (Illus Geoffrey Cox) Publisher: Canterbury University Press


Pages: 150


The Southern Alps/Ka Tiritiri o te Moana are New Zealand's largest structural feature. Running north and south for most of the length of the South Island, they cross the Roaring Forties and divide the island into two distinct regions, east and west, each with its own unique climate, landscape and lifeforms. In this book, geologist Glen Coates joins with the artist and author Geoffrey Cox to tell how the Alps were formed from ancient marine sediments, how they were uplifted to become mountains, and how they are being eroded down to produce the spectacular landscape seen today in the South Island. Even in just the past few million years vast blocks of land have been shunted incredible distances, and today frequent earthquakes remind us that this is a restless part of the earth where mountain-building is still in full swing. Rivers and glaciers, past and present, carve out a multitude of valleys and ranges, and wide plains have spread out at the mountains' feet. All this is told in vivid, non-technical language and copiously illustrated with colour photographs and artwork. The result is a book suitable for use in schools and by all who take an interest in their landscape and heritage. Paperback