Factors controlling the entrance cross‐sectional areas of four inlets (note)

Abstract The frequent occurrence of swell in the entrance to Wellington, Lyttelton, and Akaroa Harbours, coupled with the small littoral drift of sediment on adjacent rocky coastlines, appears to promote development of larger entrances than those associated with tidal control in unconsolidated sediment. In contrast to these three harbours, tidally controlled entrances have either bars or banks that protect them from severe swell and act as bypasses to the littoral drift of sediment. The entrance to Paterson Inlet lies on a coast with little sediment transport and further protection from sediment influx is provided by islands located at its entrance.