A major milestone has been reached in plans to protect and celebrate one of New Zealand’s most significant archaeological sites.
The Western Bay of Plenty District Council has adopted a cultural concept plan for Kauri Point Historic Reserve.
The reserve, which reflects centuries of continuous Māori occupation, holds deep cultural importance for Ngāi Tamawhariua, Ngāti Te Wai and Te Whānau a Tauwhao.
Archaeological evidence indicates the area has been occupied since at least AD1200, with layers of history documenting the transition from early settlements through to fortified pā and periods of intertribal conflict.
Developed in partnership between Western Bay of Plenty District Council and the Kauri Point Te Kō Rōpu hapū group, the plan represents a shared commitment to kaitiakitanga – the guardianship and care of the land.
It focuses on protecting the site’s cultural heritage, restoring its natural environment and ensuring it remains accessible for the community.
The project is estimated to cost around $1.2 million and will be delivered in stages as funding becomes available. The council has allocated $453,306 across the 2026/27 and 2027/28 financial years, with the remaining funding to be considered through its 2027–37 Long Term Plan and external funding opportunities.
The concept builds on earlier planning work, including a 2010 cultural assessment, and encompasses not only the reserve itself but surrounding areas such as Ōwarau Pā, Ōwarau Swamp and Springs, South Beach, Atea and the North and South lookouts.
Proposed features include storytelling elements such as pou and waharoa, interpretation panels, restoration of native ecosystems, protection of pā sites and new learning opportunities for visitors.
Speaking on behalf of the hapū group, Otawhiwhi Marae’s Reon Tuanau said the project is about honouring the past while preparing for the future.
Otawhiwhi Marae representative Reon Tuanau. Photo / Alisha Evans
“The history of this place runs deep for tangata whenua. We’re doing this kaupapa to honour our ancestors as best we can, strengthen ourselves and pave the way for the next generations,” he said.
“This has been a really good example of partnership between council and mana whenua.”
Tuanau said the site is unique, with three distinct pā reflecting different periods of Māori occupation.
“Early occupation is evidenced by terraces, through to the introduction of ring ditch pā. It really does take us on a journey through many generations.”
The reserve has also yielded significant archaeological finds. Excavations undertaken by the University of Auckland in the 1960s uncovered rare taonga, including intricately carved heru (combs) that provide insight into Māori artistry across centuries.
Some of these taonga were later featured in the renowned Te Māori exhibition, which toured internationally in the 1980s.
Western Bay of Plenty District Council reserves and facilities manager Peter Watson said the plan builds on a strong track record of collaboration with mana whenua.
“It’s really important for tangata whenua to see their history present in their rohe,” he said.
“At its heart, this is about partnership – working together to protect and care for the land and its stories, and taking a long-term view to ensure this special place continues to be respected into the future.”