Story: Geology – overview

Sinkholes in limestone

This aerial view shows sinkholes (dolines) in limestone near Craigmore, South Canterbury. Sinkholes, caused by limestone dissolving, are a typical feature of limestone worldwide.

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GNS Science

Reference: CN42743/11

by Lloyd Homer

Permission of GNS Science must be obtained before any use of this image.

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How to cite this page

Eileen McSaveney and Simon Nathan, Geology – overview – New Zealand breaks away from Gondwana, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/photograph/8321/sinkholes-in-limestone (accessed 16 June 2026).

Story by Eileen McSaveney and Simon Nathan, published 2 March 2009.