Certified Sommelier Practice Exam

What type of soil is predominantly found in New Zealand's North Island?

1. Volcanic soils

2. Sandy soils

3. Alluvial mountain runoff

4. Clay soils

The correct answer is: Alluvial mountain runoff

The predominant type of soil found in New Zealand's North Island is volcanic soil. This is primarily due to the geological history of the region, which is significantly influenced by volcanic activity. The North Island has several active volcanoes and volcanic regions that contribute to the rich, fertile soil, which is ideal for viticulture. Volcanic soils are characterized by their high mineral content and a good ability to retain moisture and nutrients, which supports the growth of grapevines and other crops. This is particularly important for the wine regions in the North Island, such as Hawke's Bay and Auckland, where volcanic soils help produce high-quality wines with distinct flavor profiles. While alluvial mountain runoff can be found in certain areas, it does not dominate the soil composition across the North Island like volcanic soils do. Similarly, sandy and clay soils are present in various regions but are not the defining soil type, so they do not capture the main geological characteristics of the North Island as effectively as volcanic soils do.