Seismic evidence for repeated vertical fluid flow through polygonally faulted strata in the Canterbury Basin, New Zealand

Abstract

Abstract Seismic imaging techniques are widely used to determine fluid migration pathways in the subsurface. Understanding the timing and distribution of focused fluid migration pathways is important for assessing reservoir seal quality and hydrocarbon exploration risk, as well as seafloor biogeochemical processes in the case of fluid venting from the seafloor. The frontier Canterbury Basin southeast of New Zealand is well studied, but questions remain regarding the dynamic movement of fluids through the basin. Using 3D seismic data combined with high-resolution boomer seismic data, we characterise focused fluid migration and sediment remobilisation events in the Canterbury Basin. We show how polygonal fault formation and nucleation is affected in the vicinity of vertically ascending fluids and sediments. A cylindrical region devoid of polygonal faulting around the feeder system of a buried sediment volcano points to the possible existence of an axisymmetrical stress field induced by upward migrating fluids and sediments. Sediment remobilisation and intrusions of permeable stingers (i.e. sand injectites) could enable dewatering of their host strata and thereby prevent polygonal faults from nucleating. Amplitude variations with angle (AVA) and a detailed analysis of two tiers of polygonal faults reveal three phases of fluid migration and sediment remobilisation and intrusion through, and into, low permeability sediments. Our integrated conceptual model provides insights into vertical fluid migration mechanisms and the implications for polygonal fault formation.