Track description
The complete Urupukapuka Island Archaeological Walk (5 hr) is designed in a clockwise direction, and may be joined at most of the larger bays. This track generally follows the outer edge of the island passing various archaeological features.
The southern loop covers more sites and overlooks calm, sheltered bays. The northern loop visits fewer sites, but includes some interesting sites and offers dramatic views from high, rugged cliffs.
The route can be divided into shorter walks of 2.5 hours each.
The sites (see map)
1. Terraces on spur with good views of garden drains
2. Small village on knoll overlooking Urupukapuka and Otehei Bays.
3,4,5. Headland pa (forts) for kainga living in adjacent bays and along nearby ridges. Each has a ditch dug across the headland cutting off landward access
6. Probably an inland pa. Excellent views of any seaward approach by an enemy to southern bays.
7. Inland village or pa. Important in communication links with other sites along central ridge.
8. Small village on knoll overlooking Otiao (Indico) Bay. Includes remains of at least 4 kumara storage pits.
9. Pa with unique feature of two defensive ditches. The large, flat area in the centre was probably the marae. The terraces and ditches are very well preserved.
10. Numerous gum diggers' pits along both sides of stream (Post-European period).
11. Small village overlooking Otiao Bay.
12. Spectacular complex of at least 11 well preserved kumara storage pits near cliff edge.
13. Pa of northern kainga. Formidable natural defence and excellent vantage position.
14. One deep kumara storage pit flanked by two terraces at cliff edge.
A corresponding post in the ground marks each site numbered on the map. The route is indicated by connecting marker posts. Some sites have explanatory signs. They are indicated by a triangle on the map. See if during your walk you can discover some of the many sites not numbered.
Behind Indigo Bay, a short walk leads to a dam and a wildlife hide.
Please consider the whole area including the tracks passing through as wahi tapu (sacred places) and treat with respect.
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