Work on New Zealand from the MSU group has focused on the sparse mafic volcanism. We have a collection of basalts and basaltic andesites from throughout the Taupo Volcanic Zone that we have focused our efforts on,

Initial work focused on bulk rock major and trace element data from the basaltic flows and cinder cones throughout the Taupo Volcanic Zone. This allowed the group to explore intensive and extensive parameters of melting in the New Zealand mantle wedge using Arc Basalt Simulator. These data showed distinct spatial variation in these melting conditions from north to south in the Taupo Volcanic Zone.

We continue our work in this region with a new focus on micro-analysis of mineral phases and glasses from the existing sample suite. We have also collaborated to obtain isotopic data from some of these samples. We hope to submit a manuscript soon.