Hand Made New Zealand Schist With Quartz Inclusion Display Medium Slab Ref: 0116

New Zealand schist is a highly durable, naturally layered metamorphic rock found predominantly in the South Island. Formed 200 to 300 million years ago from metamorphosed greywacke, it is widely favoured across New Zealand for its aesthetic appeal and structural performance in Design Schist Cladding and landscaping.

Geology and Origins

Formation: Millions of years ago, ancient sedimentary rock (greywacke) was buried deep within the earth. The extreme heat and pressure recrystallized the minerals, segregating quartz and mica into alternating light and dark bands.

The Haast Schist: The extensive metamorphic rock belt spanning the South Island is known as the Haast Schist. It stretches from Central Otago along the Alpine Fault and out to Cook Strait.

Landscape Features: In Central Otago, deep erosion has created iconic "schist tors"—large, freestanding rock formations that remain after softer layers have weathered away.

Ref: 0116 (For my use only)