Methodology and computational implementation of a New Zealand Velocity Model (NZVM2.0) for broadband ground motion simulation. Issue 1 (2nd January 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Thomson, Ethan M.; Bradley, Brendon A.; Lee, Robin L.
• Is Part Of: New Zealand journal of geology and geophysics. Volume 63:Issue 1(2020)
• Page Start: 110
• Page End: 127
• Publication Date: 2020-01-02
• Subjects: New Zealand -- velocity model -- ground motion simulation -- regional velocity representation -- geologic subregions; Geology -- New Zealand -- Periodicals; Geology -- Periodicals; Geophysics -- Periodicals; Geofysica; Geologie; Geology; Geophysics; New Zealand; Periodicals; 559.3
• DOI: 10.1080/00288306.2019.1636830
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1175-8791

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This paper presents a generalised velocity model construction methodology, its computational implementation, and application in the construction of a New Zealand Velocity Model (NZVM2.0) for use in physics-based broadband ground motion simulation. The methodology utilises multiple datasets spanning different length scales, which is enabled via the use of modular subregions, geologic surfaces, and parametric representations of crustal velocity. A number of efficiency-related workflows to decrease the overall computational construction time are employed, while maintaining the flexibility and extensibility to incorporate additional datasets and refined velocity parameterisations as they become available. The methodology and computational implementation processes are then applied for development of a New Zealand Velocity Model (NZVM2.0) for use in broadband ground motion simulation. The model comprises explicit representations of the Canterbury, Wellington, Nelson-Tasman, Kaikōura, Marlborough, Waiau, Hanmer and Cheviot sedimentary basins embedded within an existing regional travel-time tomography-based velocity model for the shallow crust.