Liquefaction Hazard Hutt Valley 1993

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  • Published Date Mon 01 Nov 1993
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Purpose to accompany map sheets describing potential liquefaction and ground damage hazards from earthquakes in the Hutt Valley metropolitan area.

Geographic Area: Hutt Valley metropolitan area 

Summary: This booklet supports the accompanying liquefaction hazard map sheets for the Hutt Valley area, which identify zones of liquefaction potential and liquefaction induced ground damage under two earthquake scenarios. The maps are compiled using geological data, ground shaking assessments, and historical records. The booklet is structured into eight parts: background information, map descriptions, types of ground damage, assessment methodology, limitations, data sources, earthquake scenarios, and geology and ground conditions across 17 subareas.  

Section 3.5 discusses the liquefaction potential across the Hutt Valley area. The Eastern bays are generally resistant to liquefaction under Scenario 1 but may be affected under Scenario 2. Wainuiomata, Petone, Gracefield, and Seaview show potential for liquefaction under both scenarios. Western Petone may be affected only under Scenario 2, while northern Petone shows more resistance. Woburn, Ava, and Alicetown have potential under both scenarios. Areas along the Hutt River between Alicetown and Avalon show variable potential. Lower Hutt City, Waiwhetu, Epuni, Waterloo, Avalon, and Naenae are susceptible under both scenarios. Taita, Manor Park, and Silverstream are generally resistant. Stokes Valley has poorly defined potential. Upper Hutt is mostly resistant, with marginal potential in southern Trentham and localised susceptibility in Totara Park and Brown Owl when groundwater levels are high. Some areas southeast of Upper Hutt may also be susceptible. 

Updated November 4, 2025 at 12:13 PM