Kaja Fenn (University of Liverpool) has been working with Utiku Potaka (Ngāti Hauiti), Alan Palmer and Callum Rees (Massey University) on research exploring dust deposits and landscape evolution in the lower North Island of New Zealand. This work forms part of a collaborative initiative involving Massey University, University of Liverpool, iwi partners, and local landowners.
Recent fieldwork across the Rangitīkei and Oroua valleys has focused on mapping and sampling loess, river terraces, and associated deposits to better understand how these dynamic landscapes formed over time. Sites on the Rata (Rātā) and Porewa (Pourewa) terraces, including well-preserved tephra layers, are providing important reference points for reconstructing past environmental conditions. This work complements newly published research, which presents new type sections for the last glacial river terraces in the Rangitīkei River Valley.
Together, these efforts aim to improve our understanding of Southern Hemisphere dust records by developing new chronologies and environmental reconstructions. The collaboration combines field expertise in Aotearoa New Zealand with luminescence dating capabilities at the University of Liverpool, contributing to a growing international research network and laying the groundwork for future research outputs and funding opportunities.
View east over the Rangitīkei Valley at the Rata (Rātā) Terrace type section (photo by Kaja Fenn).
Alan Palmer measures and samples a sand lens within the Rata (Rātā) terrace gravel alluvium for luminescence dating (photo by Kaja Fenn).
Kaja Fenn participating in a hui on 6 March 2026 and taking the opportunity to share her research expertise with Ngāti Hauiti and build connections.