Results from the June 1999 deformation survey (lake levelling) about Taupo Volcanic Centre are now to hand. Currently lake levelling surveys are conducted three monthly at Taupo. The results from the June 1999 survey show only small changes, mostly reversals from the March 1999 survey (see TPO-1999/02). The major trends apparent over the last 2 - 3 years are still present.

The two long-term trends are apparent in the Taupo deformation data:

1. Subsidence along the northern shores, with the maximum subsidence at Kinloch; and
2. Uplift about the lake centre, including Horomatangi Reef, Scenic Bay, Rotongaio and Motutaiko Island (Fig. 1).

The subsidence along the northern shores, represented by data from Kinloch in figure 1 above, has been observed since the early 1980’s. The rate of subsidence has been decreasing over the last 2 - 3 years. Uplift about the lake centre has been observed since mid-1996. The latest results show minor reversals of these uplift trends.

Minor earthquake activity occurred within Taupo Volcanic Centre 21 - 22 May and 30 May.

Alert Status

The Volcanic Alert Level for Taupo volcano remains at Level 0.

Brad Scott
Volcano Surveillance Manager