Under The Microscope

Local geology leaflets, produced by the New Zealand Geological Survey, $3.95 ea

The Geological Survey has been producing these leaflets over the past few years, dealing with the local landscape. Printed on heavy card folded in three, the leaflets are jam-packed with all sorts of interesting history, photos and facts. They'd be great for throwing in the car or the backpack.

I've always been impressed by the size of the Lyttleton volcano complex, but I never realised how huge the thing was until reading the "Scenery and Geology from the Summit Road, Christchurch" card. The diagrams and photos give you a new appreciation for old landscape. The writing is clear without being condescending. Take a look in your local bookshop and see if there's one for a place near you. You might learn something.

Vicki Hyde, NZSM