Seismic Sequence Stratigraphic Sub-Division Using Well Logs and Seismic Data of Taranaki Basin, New Zealand

This study focuses on the sequence stratigraphy and the dominated seismic facies in the Central Taranaki basin. Four regional seismic sequences namely SEQ4 to SEQ1 from bottom to top and four boundaries representing unconformities namely H4 to H1 from bottom to top have been traced based on the reflection terminations. This was validated using well logs information. An onlapping feature on the seismic section indicates a new perspective surface separated between the upper and lower Giant formation, which indicates a period of seawater encroachment. This study focused extensively on deposition units from SEQ4 to SEQ1. The seismic facies, isochron map, and depositional environment were determined, and the system tract was established. This study was also able to propose a new perspective sequence stratigraphy framework of the basin and probable hydrocarbon accumulations and from the general geological aspect, SA-Middle Giant Formation (SEQ3) could act as potential traps.

Automated summary

This study focused on sequence stratigraphy and seismic facies in the Central Taranaki basin, identifying four regional seismic sequences and boundaries representing unconformities. Analysis indicated a new perspective surface between the upper and lower Giant formation due to seawater encroachment. The study proposed a new sequence stratigraphy framework and discussed potential hydrocarbon accumulations, suggesting the SA-Middle Giant Formation (SEQ3) as a potential trap.