DAMS AND EARTHQUAKES IN NEW ZEALAND.

Abstract

Although there is no official New Zealand code for the design of dams, the practice of the Ministry of Works and Development, for reasons which are explained, influences the design of most dams in New Zealand. The paper describes the guidelines currently used by the Ministry for the design of dams against earthquakes. Some background information is given on seismicity, history of design approaches, and experience of dams in earthquakes, all as they relate to New Zealand. Reference is made to some general aspects of dam design which help to set the anti-seismic guidelines in perspective.