This handy reference guide will help you recognize and make sense of common (and some rare) rocks and minerals found on beaches and hillsides, in streams and elsewhere around the country.

In this book, the natural history of New Zealand's North Island, from Lake Taupo up, is described, including geology, soils, climate, flora and fauna. Chapters on different habitats are included, including forests, shrublands, wetlands and the coast.

This is the first field guide written for the general public and beginners in geology in New Zealand. Now fully revised and updated, it shows travellers in New Zealand something of the tremendous variety of our rocks, minerals and fossils and describes what to look for in many areas where rock formations are prominent. It covers the history of New Zealand from its beginnings on the sea floor some 600 million years ago to its present patchwork landscape of volcano, range and plain. This land was formed from many different layers of rock - volcanic flows, forest debris, ocean mud. All these have special characteristics, which are explained and illustrated to enable readers to find the layers and understand their origins and what they can tell us about the landscapes of the past. The crystals that grew in the rocks and the remains of living creatures that were preserved are also illustrated and described. Written in simplified terms, it includes an introductory chapter on general geology, A geological time chart and quick reference maps of the North Island and the South Island for travellers.

Insight Guides: Inspiring your next adventure Frequently voted one of the best travel destinations in the world, New Zealand is famed for its stunning landscapes, hospitable people and range of thrilling outdoor experiences. The new edition of Insight Guide New Zealand provides both inspiration and practical guidance for a visit, with its combination of lavish full-colour photos of the country's incredible scenery and detailed information on the country's fascinating history, culture and diversity. The Best of New Zealand section guides you to all the must-see sights and quintessential experiences, while fascinating features explore topics from Maori art to thrill-seeking in depth. Our expert author guides you through all the sights, from cosmopolitan Auckland in the north to the vast southern extremes of Southland and Stewart Island, taking in beautiful beaches and vineyards, adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, Maori culture and the safe, laid-back atmosphere of this small and friendly country. Maps throughout will help you get around and travel tips give you all the essential information. A comprehensive Travel Tips section gives you all the travel advice you need to plan your trip. Discover this exhilarating destination with Insight Guide New Zealand. About Insight Guides: Insight Guides has over 40 years' experience of publishing high-quality, visual travel guides. We produce around 400 full-color print guide books and maps as well as picture-packed eBooks to meet different travelers' needs. Insight Guides' unique combination of beautiful travel photography and focus on history and culture together create a unique visual reference and planning tool to inspire your next adventure. 'Insight Guides has spawned many imitators but is still the best of its type.' - Wanderlust Magazine

Did the entire New Zealand land mass sink beneath the waves 23 million years ago? Many biologists reject the idea and insist that our native terrestrial fauna can be explained only by the continuous existence of land. But many geologists are now asserting that there is no longer any convincing geological evidence that the New Zealand section of Zealandia remained above the sea’s surface. But if Zealandia did sink completely beneath the waves 23 million years ago – where did our distinctive ancient flora and fauna such as the tuatara and our tree ferns come from? This BWB Text is a provocative treatment of the ‘Drowning Zealandia’ scientific controversy by geologist Hamish Campbell.

No Marketing Blurb

Insight Guides: all your customers need to inspire every step of their journeys. An in-depth book, now with free app and eBook. Newly updated edition of Insight Guide New Zealand (with free app and eBook) is ideal for travellers seeking immersive cultural experiences -In-depth on history and culture: travellers can enjoy special features on art and literature, flora, fauna and the environment and outdoor activities, all written by local experts -Innovative extras = incredible value, and unique in the market. All Insight Guides to countries and regions come with a free eBook and regularly updated app, unlike comparable competitors' products -High-production values - smart flexi-binding and first-rate, full-colour photography throughout -Exciting opportunities for bespoke promotions and POS - please contact your Account Manager for details. On-going consumer marketing activity Content overview: -in-depth on history and culture -invaluable maps, travel tips and practical information ensure effortless planning -inspirational colour photography throughout -inventive designthat makes for an engaging reading experience