Core description and sedimentological interpretation of the Mt Messenger Formation, Ngatoro-3 and Ngatoro-4, Taranaki. PPL38706

Seven cores from Ngatoro-3 and Ngatoro-4 (PPL38706) covering the Mt Messenger Formation (early Tongaporutuan) were examined. Nine lithofacies are recognised from the cores. Sandstone comprises between 3% and 45% of the total sediment cored. Of the sandy units, massive sandstone is the dominant lithology forming beds of up to 2.2m thickness. They are interpreted as basal division of turbidity currents (Bouma Ta) or as rapidly deposited traction flow deposits. Other sandstone lithofacies are better sorted, generally finer grained, and include laminated, ripple laminated, climbing ripple laminated, and poorly to moderately well bedded sandstone. Deposition characteristics and settings are also discussed.