Photograph courtesy of John Anderson, Rice University. North Island beach and inlet. Photograph courtesy of Charlotte Kelchner, Rice University. Earthquakes occasionally rock the country. The tectonic activity has resulted in the presence of many active volcanoes and geysers across North Island, and is the major reason for the topography seen on the island.
South Island is geologically quieter.
Geysers on North Island. Photograph courtesy of Charlotte Kelchner, Rice University. Akaroa Harbour near Christchurch, New Zealand. The harbour lies in an ancient volcanic crater. Photograph by S. Shipp, Rice University.