Story: Glaciers and glaciation

The last glaciation

The last glaciation

This map shows the glaciers and coastline of New Zealand during the latter part of the last glacial period, about 20,000–18,000 years ago. Sea level was about 100 metres lower than at present, so the shallower part of the continental shelf was exposed. Glacier ice was also more extensive, with several large glaciers reaching beyond the present West Coast of the South Island.

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How to cite this page:

Eileen McSaveney, 'Glaciers and glaciation - The ice ages', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/map/10737/the-last-glaciation (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by Eileen McSaveney, published 24 Sep 2007, updated 1 Apr 2021