Abstract
A consistent geometric arrangement of certain structural trends geographically associated with major strike-slip faults is widely developed in New Zealand. Elements of the pattern so formed, some of which are approximate mirror images of each other, include fold trends, dike swarms, minor faults, and quartz lodes, and are described from a number of areas. Possible origins of the pattern are discussed briefly. A fault “drag” mechanism does not appear to explain all the observed relationships and the hypothesis favoured is that the structural trends concerned result from the same overall tectonic conditions that created and maintained the major fault. The trend pattern promises to be a useful criterion for recognising strike-slip faults and the determination of their sense of displacement, and may also indicate when faulting commenced.

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