The transformation from an estuarine to lacustrine environment in the lower Wairarapa

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Abstract
The lower Wairarapa valley, which is now a riverine-lacustrine complex, was a large estuary as late as 3500–4000 years B.P. Vegetation at that time was podocarp forest, as it was in the area at the time of European exploration. The most likely explanation of the change in environment is extensive late Holocene alluviation, although retreat from higher post-glacial sea levels, or local tectonic events, cannot be ruled out as contributing factors.