A gamma radioactivity survey of some of the geothermal areas of the North Island of New Zealand

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Abstract
In a preliminary survey of gamma radioactivity of some geothermal areas in the North Island of New Zealand a wide variation in the radioactivities of soils, pools, and sinters was found between separate thermal areas, particularly between sulphate and chloride areas. In the Waiora area, the average radioactivity of hot pools with no overflow was greater than that for hot springs. In some hot pools, the variation of gamma radioactivity with depth showed the presence of comparatively active ledges. Sinter deposits around these pools were more radioactive than nearby soils. It is concluded that the radioactivity observed in the pools is controlled by the physical and chemical characteristics of the pools and not by the water entering from depth.