While travelling along Highway 38 to Murupara, we noticed that there weren't a lot of caches in the area. Let's fix that!
Highway 38 is a busy forestry road and traffic flow will depend on the time of day when you visit. Park carefully and be observant at all times. This is a log only cache and you will need to bring your own pen/cil.
Description: There had been some recent conversation regarding some little known Maori rock art in the Kaingaroa Forest. Naturally, our sense of curiosity was stirred, so we decided to do a little bit of research. Sure enough, this site does exist. But there are no signposts or guide maps to point the way. It would be so easy to drive past - We did! It wasn't a straight forward find.
There is no way of knowing that you are in the right place until you arrive. Reassuringly, the path in is well trodden and easy to follow. However, mind the narrow steps down and take care if there has been recent rain. Upon approach, you will notice the rock carvings have been fully protected. A metal cage spans the length of the shelter, and this is an important line of defense. The rock carvings have been damaged by vandals and graffiti. It is extremely annoying to witness the thoughtless scrawlings in this setting. Take a look at the canoes... These are unlike any others. The spirals on the sides don’t match any known Maori or Polynesian canoe design and the prow is also a unique style. There is an information panel, though it has deterriorated over time - If you can read it, well done!
The Cache: We realise that this location is highly sensitive and needs protecting. The cache is placed away from the rock carvings in an easily accessible location. Mind your footing! It can get damp and slippery in here.