The ancient headland pa site known as Te Tumu Ouwe extends east into the Welcome Bay Estuary. The interior of the pa comprises eastern and western occupation areas divided by a central defensive scarp.
At the higher eastern end is an elevated platform (tihi) with 2 prominent raised rim pits. Other surface features include 3 or 4 house floors and several small pit features indicative of subterranean rua. Eroding shell midden down the southern scarp suggests food preparation areas in association with the identified house floors.
The features within the reserve are well preserved, however the site has been damaged by the construction of Fantail Drive which destroyed part of the western defensive system. This is a typical headland pa for the Bay of Plenty, and may be considered rare in that it is relatively well-preserved, and in a Council reserve which is accessible to the public.
Te Tumu Ouwe is an excellent example of a small Bay of Plenty steep-sided headland pa, defended by steep slopes on three sides and a transverse ditch and bank on the landward side.
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We suggest that you park in the Fantail Drive parking area (S37 43.197 E176 10.876), and walk up the road, where you will find the entry point (S37 43.169 E176 10.896) to the pa on your right. The track at first is difficult with a short steep staircase which will be slippery in the wet. The climb gets easier after the first staircase.
You will (hopefully) find the 1.4 litre sistema cache on one of the northern terraces. The Esplanade Reserve at the car park has a nice grassed area with a picnic table and petanque courts. Sometimes there are prickles, so we suggest not wearing jandals.
FIRST TO FIND HONOURS ... went to ... GECKOH