In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have revealed the existence of a long-lost eighth continent, Zealandia, which once stretched far beyond the boundaries of modern-day New Zealand. This undersea landmass, now submerged beneath the Pacific Ocean, spanned an area approximately 95% larger than the New Zealand we know today and dates back as far as 40 million years.
The discovery provides a fascinating glimpse into Earth’s ancient geography and raises intriguing questions about the planet’s tectonic shifts and the land that existed long before humans. Researchers recently mapped Zealandia using geological data collected from the seabed of the Fairway Ridge in the Coral Sea. The rock samples, including basalts, sandstones, and pebbles, were carefully analyzed to reveal a timeline of this lost continent’s existence. Some of the sandstones were found to be as old as 95 million years, while volcanic pebbles within them were dated to around 130 to 110 million years ago.
“Our study utilized data from rock samples, regional magnetic anomalies, and other geological surveys to construct a comprehensive map of Zealandia’s underwater geology,” said the research team. “Our mapping now covers the full 5 million square kilometers of this lost continent.”
The newly revealed map indicates that Zealandia’s landmass was predominantly situated in the northern region, which today hosts some of the best surfing spots on Earth. However, had Zealandia remained above the ocean’s surface, it would have significantly altered the coastal geography of Australia’s east coast, potentially blocking iconic surf locations in Queensland and New South Wales, including Snapper Rocks and Byron Bay.
While Zealandia may no longer be a surf destination, its discovery offers a fascinating window into Earth’s dynamic geological history and the mysteries that continue to unfold beneath the ocean’s surface.