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Ebb-Jet Dynamics and Transient Eddy Formation at Tauranga Harbour: Implications for Entrance Channel Shoaling

Ebb-Jet Dynamics and Transient Eddy Formation at Tauranga Harbour: Implications for Entrance Channel Shoaling

Authors :
Terry R. Healy
Christian Winter
Kyle C. Spiers
Source :
Journal of Coastal Research. 251:234-247
Publication Year :
2009
Publisher :
Coastal Education and Research Foundation, 2009.

Abstract

In 1992 the entrance channel through the tidal inlet to Tauranga Harbour, which is located along the Bay of Plenty littoral drift system, was deepened from 10 m to 14 m. The deepened channel has become a sediment trap for littoral drift bypassing and tidal current driven sediment transport through the inlet. Since 1992, there has been an increase in maintenance dredging requirements at the inlet, because of sand accumulation along the southeastern border of the entrance channel. Previous studies have identified an ebb tide–induced eddy operating on the eastern side of the ebb-jet as it exits the tidal gorge. In this article, the eddy system has been simulated with a validated two-dimensional hydrodynamic model, detailing time-varying current patterns over the ebb-tidal delta. Particular emphasis is placed on defining the trajectory of the eddy and evaluating its influence on the observed sedimentation patterns. The model results indicate the formation of opposing eddies on either side of the entr...

Details

ISSN :
15515036 and 07490208
Volume :
251
Database :
OpenAIRE
Journal :
Journal of Coastal Research
Accession number :
edsair.doi...........de42fa9d840843914b113ccc89ad8d9f
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.2112/07-0947.1