Structure of the Tongariro Volcanic system: Insights from magnetotelluric imaging

- 3D resistivity modelling shows the structure of the Tongariro magmatic system.
- There is a shallow crustal magma accumulation zone associated with Tongariro.
- The pre-eruptive magma accumulation zone suggests a 20-45% partial melt fraction.

The dynamics of magma reservoirs (the main repositories for eruptible magma) play a fundamental role in the style and behaviour of volcanic systems. A key first step in understanding these systems is to identify their location and size accurately. We present results from a broadband magnetotelluric study of the Tongariro Volcanic system and discuss how the results fit within current petrological models. The Tongariro Volcanic system is a composite andesitic cone complex, located at the southern end of the Taupo Volcanic Zone in the central North Island of New Zealand. We use data from 136 broadband magnetotelluric soundings within a 25×35km area covering the volcanic system to construct a 3D image of the magmatic system of the Tongariro Volcanic Complex including Mount Ngauruhoe. The structure of the Tongariro magmatic system has been determined from 3D forward and inverse modelling of the magnetotelluric data and allowed for an estimation of the melt fraction present within the system. 3D inverse modelling of the magnetotelluric data shows: a well-developed shallow low resistivity zone outlining the geothermal system; a zone of even lower resistivity representing a shallow crustal magma accumulation zone located at a depth of ∼4-12 km offset to the east of the Tongariro vent system; and a zone with a slightly higher resistivity connecting these two components of the magmatic system providing the path for magmatic fluids from the deeper source region to reach the surface during eruptive events.