New EQC-funded seismic research on the Nevis and greater Nevis-Cardrona fault system, shows the area could produce an earthquake similar to the 2010 Christchurch quake.
It stretches for about 100 kilometres from Lake Wanaka to near Garston.
Otago University lead researcher Mark Stirling says this sort of information helps people understand and manage potential seismic hazards.
He says with the likes of Queenstown, Wanaka and Cromwell going so quickly, the importance of understanding these fault lines is increasing.
