Kaikohe Hill facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Kaikohe Hill |
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|---|---|
| Tokareireia | |
 Kaikohe Hill
Location in Northland Region
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 282 m (925 ft) |
| Geography | |
| Location | Kaikohe, New Zealand |
| Geology | |
| Volcanic arc/belt | Kaikohe-Bay of Islands |
Kaikohe Hill, also known as Tokareireia, is a fascinating natural landmark in New Zealand. This hill stands 282 meters (about 925 feet) tall. It is actually a type of small volcano called a basaltic scoria cone. You can find Kaikohe Hill on the western edge of the town of Kaikohe. It is part of a larger area known as the Kaikohe-Bay of Islands volcanic field.
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What is Kaikohe Hill?
Kaikohe Hill is a "basaltic scoria cone." This means it is a hill made from a specific type of volcanic rock called basalt. When a volcano erupts, it can throw out bubbly, lightweight pieces of lava. These pieces are called scoria.
Over time, these scoria pieces pile up around the volcanic vent. This creates a cone-shaped hill, much like a giant pile of volcanic popcorn. Kaikohe Hill is a great example of this kind of volcanic landform. It shows us what happens during smaller, explosive eruptions.
How Scoria Cones Form
Scoria cones are one of the most common types of volcanoes on Earth. They form when gas-rich magma erupts from a single vent. The magma breaks into small, frothy pieces as it explodes into the air.
These pieces cool quickly and fall back to the ground around the vent. They build up a steep-sided, cone-shaped hill. The eruptions that form scoria cones are usually short-lived. They can last from a few days to several years.
Basaltic Rock
The term "basaltic" refers to the type of lava that formed Kaikohe Hill. Basalt is a common volcanic rock. It is usually dark in color and flows easily when it is molten. This type of lava is found in many places around the world. It forms large shield volcanoes and volcanic plains.
Where is Kaikohe Hill Located?
Kaikohe Hill is located in the Northland Region of New Zealand. Specifically, it sits right next to the town of Kaikohe. This town is in the Far North District of the country.
The hill is an important part of the local landscape. It provides a natural landmark for the area. Its location makes it easily visible from different parts of Kaikohe.
The Kaikohe-Bay of Islands Volcanic Field
Kaikohe Hill is part of a larger area known as the Kaikohe-Bay of Islands volcanic field. A volcanic field is a region with many small, scattered volcanoes. These volcanoes usually erupt from different vents over a long period.
This volcanic field in New Zealand has many scoria cones, lava flows, and craters. These features show a history of volcanic activity in the region. Most of these volcanoes are now dormant, meaning they are not expected to erupt again.
Importance of Kaikohe Hill
Even though Kaikohe Hill is a small volcano, it is important for several reasons. It helps scientists understand the volcanic history of New Zealand. Studying hills like Kaikohe Hill gives clues about how the Earth's crust moves and changes.
For the local community, Kaikohe Hill is a significant landmark. It is a natural feature that defines the area. It also offers a glimpse into the geological past of the region.
