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Geographic Area: Wellington City metropolitan area, including Ngauranga-Kaiwharawhara, Kaiwharawhara-Thorndon Reclamation, Thorndon, Waterloo Quay Reclamation, Featherston Street Reclamation, Jervois Quay/Wakefield Street/Oriental Bay Reclamation, Te Aro Flats, Basin Reserve/Te Aro Swamp, Newtown, Kilbirnie/Lyall Bay, Miramar/Airport, Seatoun, and Island Bay. 

Summary: This booklet supports accompanying map sheets that identify areas in Wellington City with potential for liquefaction and liquefaction-induced ground damage under two earthquake scenarios. The liquefaction potential map categorizes zones based on geological susceptibility and expected ground shaking, while the ground damage map outlines areas likely to experience subsidence and lateral spreading. The booklet is structured into eight parts: Part 1 provides background; Part 2 describes the hazard maps and classifications; Part 3 outlines types of ground damage; Part 4 explains the assessment methodology; Part 5 discusses limitations; Part 6 defines earthquake scenarios; Part 7 describes geology and ground conditions; and appendices provide references and technical definitions.  

Section 3.5 discusses that most locations in Wellington City have potential for liquefaction during a moderate earthquake (Scenario 1), with high potential during a severe earthquake (Scenario 2). The presence of a surface layer resistant to liquefaction may reduce damage, but high ground accelerations in Scenario 2 could still cause significant effects. The booklet emphasizes that liquefaction hazard varies locally and is influenced by soil type, groundwater levels, and proximity to water bodies. It is intended to inform planning, development, and civil defence strategies by providing regional-scale hazard information.