South Island

Prelims – Current events of International Importance

Mains – Important Geophysical Phenomenon

Why in News?

A strong 6.7 magnitude earthquake struck off New Zealand’s South Island recently.

• It is one of the larger and southernmost of New Zealand in the southwestern Pacific Ocean.
• Straits - South Island is separated from North Island to the north by Cook Strait and from Stewart Island to the south by Foveaux Strait.
• Geography - Mountainous terrain occupies almost three-quarters of South Island.
• It is dominated by the Southern Alps which divide the island and affect both climate and flora.
• The Alps divide the Westland Plain from the Canterbury Plains.
• Fiordland National Park, distinctive area with numerous coastal fjords (inlets) and high lakes is situated in this island.
  • It is part of the Te Wahipounamu UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Lakes - Lake Tekapo, Lake Wakatipu, and Lake Pukaki.
• Urban areas - Christchurch, Dunedin, and Invercargill.

References

1. Alzajeera | Earthquake in New Zealand’s South Island
2. Britannica | South-Island-New-Zealand