Archaeological Features: Eroding midden in edge of drain. Supporting Evidence: An exploratory excavation in 1977 found two main cultural horizons; an early horizon dated by radiocarbon to between 350 and 700 years old containing animal bones and Archaic artefacts, and a later horizon less than 350 years old containing animal bones and many classic artefacts. Assessment: The midden contains remains of Archaic Maori occupation stratified below Classic Maori occupation. It is largely undisturbed, which is an extremely unusual situation for an Otago site and it is therefore a rare, possibly unique site important for understanding the culture change from Archaic to Classic Maori in Murihiku.
Location
List Entry Information
Overview
Detailed List Entry
Status
Listed
List Entry Status
Historic Place Category 1
Access
Private/No Public Access
List Number
5681
Date Entered
4th April 1984
Date of Effect
4th April 1984
City/District Council
Dunedin City
Region
Otago Region
Extent of List Entry
Extent includes part of the land described as Sec 1-2 of Sec 40, Blk IV, North Harbour and Blueskin SD (RT OT13A/451), Otago Land District and the archaeological sites, thereon.
Legal description
Sec 1-2 of Sec 40, Blk IV, North Harbour and Blueskin SD (RT OT13A/451), Otago Land District
Location Description
Site is located at Long Beach, Purakina, not far from Beach Road.