Abstract
A method for determining upper mantle velocities is presented. Observations of deep earthquakes at small epicentral distances enable standard travel-time tables to be modified for regional studies. This is done by calculating the ratio of the actual travel time to that given in the tables, for a range of focal depths. Local velocity models may then be determined. The Jeffreys-Bullen travel times have been modified to suit the New Zealand region. Strong evidence is presented for velocities higher than the Jeffreys-Bullen values at depths less than about 160 km, and below that a low-velocity zone extending to a depth of at least 300 km.

This publication has 7 references indexed in Scilit: