New Zealand Journal of
Archaeology Index > Vol 27 Jones
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NEW ZEALAND JOURNAL OF
ARCHAEOLOGY ABSTRACT |
An Interpretation of the Settlement and
Defences of the Otatara-Hikurangi Pa
Complex, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
Kevin L. Jones1 and Tony Walton1
ABSTRACT
Despite the amorphous appearance of Hikurangi, one of
New Zealand’s largest pā,
it is possible to draw conclusions about the defensive
character of the place and its
neighbour Ōtatara. Detailed study of vertical
aerial photographs reveals potential
defensive lines, which have to be interpreted in the
light of the overall topography
of the place. The defence of Ōtatara-Hikurangi
relied largely on natural features,
on controlling the high ground, and on the speedy
interior movement by defenders
from one area to another as required. Fixed defences,
including scarps, were a small
part of the mix. Ōtatara-Hikurangi was an
important centre in late prehistory and
could probably muster large numbers of defenders.
Keywords: PĀ, DEFENCE, DITCH AND BANK, DISCONTINUOUS SCARP,
CHRONOLOGY, NGĀTI KAHUNGŪNU, RUARAHANGA
POLITY, LADY
FOX.
1 Department of
Conservation, PO Box 10 420, Wellington, New Zealand. Email: kljones@doc.
govt.nz, twalton@doc.govt.nz.
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Copyright New Zealand Archaeological Association.
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