Hydrothermal eruptions in the Waiotapu geothermal system, New Zealand

Abstract

Waiotapu is an active ore-forming hydrothermal system with characteristics similar to those of epithermal Au-Ag deposits. The distribution, petrography and mineralogy of hydrothermal eruption breccias are described and related to the chemistry and hypothesized dynamics of the discharging hydrothermal fluids. Evidence of ore-grade Au-Ag mineralization below the Champagne Pool is adduced. The systematics of the Waiotapu geothermal system allow identification of flow paths along which boiling has occurred in fossil geothermal systems - for targeting exploration drilling.-G.J.N. Show more