G. Leslie Adkin (1888–1964) and glaciation of the Tararua Range, North Island, New Zealand

Abstract

Research initiated in 1909 by G. Leslie Adkin (1888–1964) suggested that the central Tararua Range on the North Island, New Zealand, was subjected to only limited alpine-style glaciation during the Late Pleistocene. This was based on the ‘U-shaped’ cross-profiles in the uppermost parts of several valleys, and cirque basins. Findings were published in Transactions of the New Zealand Institute, but were not met with universal acceptance by luminaries such as Charles Cotton. Adkin’s work remained the only published glacial research undertaken on the North Island’s axial ranges until the latter part of the 20th century. Adkin holds a special position in New Zealand science, because although he worked full-time as a farmer he published nearly 40 articles in scientific journals on topics as varied as Māori archaeology and geoscience.