Care needed at archaeological sites

Care needed at archaeological sites

The New Zealand Historic Places Trust (NZHPT) says the recent damage to a Taranaki pa site should “serve as a cautionary tale” for landowners and councils in protecting archaeological sites.

Ngati Ruanui iwi expressed concern this week at the damage to Te Ruaki Pa at Ohangai, 5km from Hawera, saying it was caused by dairy cows on the pa site.

Archaeological sites are protected by the Historic Places Act (1993), and NZHPT will investigate the circumstances behind the damage to Te Ruaki Pa.

NZHPT Senior Archaeologist Dr Rick McGovern-Wilson said while the damage might have been unintentional it is the responsibility of all landowners to find out if their property has archaeological or wahi tapu significance.

Dr McGovern-Wilson said Te Ruaki Pa was recorded as an archaeological site by the New Zealand Archaeological Association (NZAA) in 1961 and its location, features and condition had been regularly updated. Landowners and councils could access the NZAA’s on-line website (www.archsite.org.nz) which holds over 62,000 records.

“This damage should serve as a cautionary tale. Landowners should be aware that they could be buying, or already working on, an historic site and investigate what that might mean for managing such a site as part of their business operations,” Dr McGovern-Wilson said.

“Farming practices can significantly affect our archaeological heritage and many in the farming community take pride in caring for these significant places. The Taranaki region has long and rich history of Maori settlement, which makes finding out about your property that much more important.”

Councils also needed to take a greater responsibility in passing on information to landowners, Dr McGovern-Wilson said.

“Councils can afford protection to historic and archaeological sites in their district plans. Te Ruaki Pa has prominent features that make it stand out as a significant pa site. It is important the South Taranaki District Council not only recognise this early history but ensure its protection by passing on all information to landowners and, where appropriate, through heritage listing.”

ENDS

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