The Norfolk Ridge: A Proximal Record of the Tonga-Kermadec Subduction Initiation

Abstract

Norfolk Ridge bounds the northeastern edge of the continent of Zealandia and is proximal to where Cenozoic Tonga-Kermadec subduction initiation occurred. We present and analyze new seismic reflection, bathymetric and rock data from Norfolk Ridge that show it is composed of a thick sedimentary succession and that it was formed and acquired its present-day ridge physiography and architecture during Eocene to Oligocene uplift, emergence and erosion. Contemporaneous subsidence of the adjacent New Caledonia Trough shaped the western slope of Norfolk Ridge and was accompanied by volcanism. Neogene extension along the eastern slope of Norfolk Ridge led to the opening of the Norfolk Basin. Our observations reveal little or no contractional deformation, in contrast to observations elsewhere in Zealandia, and are hence significant for understanding the mechanics of subduction initiation. We suggest that subduction nucleated north of Norfolk Ridge and propagated rapidly along the ridge during the period 40-35 Ma, giving it a linear and narrow shape. Slab roll-back following subduction initiation may have preserved the ridge and created its eastern flank. Our observations suggest that pre-existing structures, which were likely inherited from Cretaceous Gondwana subduction, were well-oriented to propagate rupture and create self-sustaining subduction.