Dunedin Geology from the air

Dunedins famous “Pyramids” at the Okia Reserve on the Otago Peninsula. These features were formed during the first eruptive stage of the volcano on which Dunedin is built. They are made of a dark rock called basalt which is extremely hard and resistant to erosion. The basalt has formed a collection of jointed columns. The columns are most prominent on the seaward side of the “Little Pyramid” (Te Matai O Kia). (A track leads to the top of the “Little Pyramid”where you can get outstanding views of the reserve and its coastline.)On the seaward side of the “Little Pyramid”, you’ll also find an old cave carved out by the sea long ago. Signs of Maori occupation have been found here. The cave is listed as an important archaeological site.

At Lovers Leap the sea has carved a notch into the cliff and tunneled out an arch. Basalt columns are visible in the face of the cliff here. Basalt colums similarly found at the Organ Pipes, Seconds beach and Blackhead.

The Chasm is similar although the sea no longer enters into the floor of the notch.

Only visible by air or boat. Shows clearly the old lava/ash flows from the Dunedin Volcano.

Once the discharge point for the sewage discharge for Dunedin City. The last piece of volcanic material attributed to the Otakou eruption.