ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY AND ASSESSMENT OF THE PROPOSED OYSTER RECLAMATION AREA, OPUA, BAY OF ISLANDS.

Transcription

1 NORTHERN ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY AND ASSESSMENT OF THE PROPOSED OYSTER RECLAMATION AREA, OPUA, BAY OF ISLANDS. Prepared for Bay of Islands Vintage Railway Trust/ Oyster Farmers Maritime Contractors Co-Operative Kawakawa/ Opua Northern Archaeological Research Ltd P O Box , Devonport, Auckland 0744 February 2017

2 NORTHERN ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESEARCH ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY AND ASSESSMENT OF THE PROPOSED OYSTER RECLAMATION AREA, OPUA, BAY OF ISLANDS. By Leigh Johnson and Elisabeth Callaghan Northern Archaeological Research Ltd.

3 CONTENTS Introduction 1 Location 1 Proposed Development 2 Statutory Requirements 4 Survey Method 5 Archaeological and Historical Background 5 Survey Results 9 Archaeological Significance 12 Assessment of Effects 13 Conclusion 15 References 15 Recommendations 16 Appendix

4 FIGURES Figure 1. Location of the proposed reclamation area (Q05). 1 Figure 2. Figure 3. Figure 4. Figure 5. Figure 6. Detail of the proposed oyster reclamation area (orange), Opua (Courtesy of Bayplan, Jan 2017). The proposed drainage works for the oyster reclamation area (orange), Opua (Courtesy of Bayplan, Jan 2017). The recorded archaeological sites in the area of Beaufort Street and the proposed oyster reclamation area (Courtesy of Archsite). The 1984 sketch diagram on the Q05/877 (N15/274) archaeological site record form, showing the cottage. x and ma mark two areas of shell midden. The hatched areas are additional areas of shell midden. Detail of SO 6218, dated 1892 showing the location of the Railway Cottage

5 PLATES Plate 1. Area of illegal refuse disposal, to the south of the beach flat. 6 Plate 2. Plate 3. Plate 4. Plate 5. Plate 6. Plate 7. Plate 8. Plate 9. Plate 10. Plate 11. Plate 12. Plate 13. Refuse disposed of, and exposed, in eroded shell midden on beach foreshore. Detail of the aerial photograph of the Colenso Triangle and the area of the proposed reclamation showing the beach flat and the cottage (Courtesy of Alexander Turnbull Library Ref: WA F ). Detail of the aerial photograph of the Colenso Triangle and the area of the proposed reclamation (including the beach flat and cottage) (Courtesy of Alexander Turnbull Library Ref: WA F ). Detail of the aerial photograph of the area of the proposed reclamation showing the historic house, shed and track (Courtesy of Alexander Turnbull Library Ref: WA F ). The approximate location of the previously recorded features associated with Q05/877 (grey); location of the historic railway cottage (F); and previously unrecorded features B-D. The approximate area of potential subsurface archaeological remains associated with Q05/877 is marked red. The area of the proposed reclamation, showing the beach flat (rear) and part of the rock platform (foreground). The oyster barge is approximately in the location of the proposed boat ramp access road. Previously recorded shell midden (A) exposed in the bank above the rock platform, potentially affected by the proposed drainage works. The shell midden feature exposed in the bank (B) above the reclamation proposal, potentially affected by the proposed drainage works. Close up of the shell midden (B), exposed in the bank above the reclamation proposal. A small fire-scoop exposed in the profile of the beach flat (C) affected by the reclamation proposal. Shell midden exposed in the beach flat (D) affected by the reclamation proposal. The shell midden (E) exposed in the bank above the existing access road Cover. The area of the proposed reclamation, showing the beach flat (rear) and part of the rock platform (foreground). The oyster barge is approximately in the location of the proposed boat ramp access road.

6 1 Introduction The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway Trust and the Oyster Farmers and Maritime Contractors Co-Operative propose undertake an area of reclamation to the south-east of the area known as Colenso Triangle, Opua, Bay of Islands. After notification by members of the public of potential unrecorded archaeological features/sites which may be affected by the proposal, and at the request of FNDC for comment by an archaeologist, Northern Archaeological Research Ltd were commissioned by J Kemp (Bayplan-Kerikeri) on behalf of the BOIVRT and the OFMC to undertake an archaeological survey and assessment of the proposal. The survey and assessment was undertaken to record archaeological sites or remains affected by the proposed development and advise the owners as to their obligations under the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act, 2014, in respect of any affected archaeological sites. The survey was undertaken by Leigh Johnson and Elisabeth Callaghan on the 24 th of January This report outlines the results. Location The proposed works are located on an area of beach flats and seabed on the western side of the Kawakawa River, south-west of the existing Opua Marina; and approximately 90m east of SH 11 (Paihia Road), off of Beaufort Street, Opua. The area proposed for the reclamation and associated activities is at the base of a small promontory which extends into the Kawakawa River. The historic Kawakawa-Opua Railway line (P05/1002) is located on the north-western boundary of the proposal. Access to the area is currently from Beaufort Street, via an existing formed and gravelled access track, across the railway embankment, down to a formed turn-around/parking area. The access track has been constructed through the beachflat. Mangroves are located on the south-east side of the embankment and area of proposed works. A natural rock platform extends around the base of the promontory, extending into the Kawakawa River, this appears to be mostly covered at high tide. The recorded archaeological site Q05/877 (platform, terraces, shell midden) is located on the northern side of the area of proposed works. FIGURE 1. LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED RECLAMATION AREA (Q05).

7 2 Proposed development The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway Trust (BOIVRT) and the Oyster Farmers and Maritime Contractors Co-Operative (OFMC) are in the process of applying for consents for an area of reclamation and associated facilities for an oyster farm berthing area (Figures 2 & 3). As a result of public comment on the proposal, the BOIVRT and OFMC were made aware of the potential for previously unrecorded archaeological remains in the area of the proposal. As a result, the BOIVRT and OFMC commissioned NAR Ltd to undertake a survey and assessment of the proposal. A reclamation area measuring some 35-65m wide x approximately 120m long is located on the south-west side of a small promontory accessed from Beaufort Street. A rock retaining wall (or a sheet pile wall) 48m x 8m wide, is proposed for the northeast of the proposal, abutting the existing rail corridor. It is proposed to have a road running over the reclamation to a boat ramp at the eastern end. The proposed access road to the ramp is approximately 8m wide. A proposed boat ramp located at the south-eastern end of the reclamation area measures some 10m x 28m. Two berthing areas (one for oyster barges, the other for Total Marine Services) will be located on the south-eastern and south-western ends of the reclamation area. In addition to the reclamation area an intercept swale drain is proposed for the southern slopes of the small promontory; along with a cess pit, a sediment control tank and outlet pipe, and associated pipework/drains in the area of the reclamation itself. FIGURE 2. DETAIL OF THE PROPOSED OYSTER RECLAMATION AREA (Orange), OPUA (Courtesy Bayplan, Jan 2017).

8 3 FIGURE 3. THE PROPOSED DRAINAGE WORKS (green) FOR THE OYSTER RECLAMATION AREA, OPUA (Courtesy Bayplan, Jan 2017).

9 4 Statutory Requirements The following is a brief outline of statutory obligations in New Zealand in respect of archaeological sites prepared by the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga (HNZ). There are two main pieces of legislation in New Zealand that control work affecting archaeological sites. These are the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act, 2014 (HNZPTA), and the Resource Management Act, 1991(RMA). HERITAGE NEW ZEALAND POUHERE TAONGA ACT 2014 ARCHAEOLOGICAL PROVISIONS The Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga (HNZPT) administers the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act (HNZPTA). All archaeological sites in New Zealand are protected under the HNZPTA and may only be modified with the written authority of the HNZPT. The maximum penalty in the HNZPTA for un-authorised damage of an archaeological site is $120,000. The maximum penalty for un-authorised site destruction is $300,000. The HNZA contains a consent (commonly referred to as an Authority ) process for any work of any nature affecting archaeological sites, where an archaeological site is defined as: Any place in New Zealand, including any building or structure (or part of a building or structure), that - a. Was associated with human activity that occurred before 1900 or is the site of the wreck of any vessel where the wreck occurred before 1900; and b. Provides or may provide, through investigation by archaeological methods, evidence relating to the history of New Zealand; and c. Includes a site for which a declaration is made under section 43(1) Any person who intends carrying out work that may damage, modify or destroy an archaeological site must first obtain an authority from the HNZPT (Part 3 Section 44). The process applies to archaeological sites on all land in New Zealand irrespective of the type of tenure. The archaeological authority process applies to all sites that fit the Heritage New Zealand definition, regardless of whether: The site is recorded in the NZ Archaeological Association (NZAA) Site Recording Scheme or registered/declared by the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga, The site only becomes known about as a result of ground disturbance and /or The activity is permitted under a district or regional plan, or resource or building consent has been granted. Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga also maintains a Register of Historic Places, Historic Areas, Wahi Tapu and Wahi Tapu Areas. The register can include some archaeological sites (though the main database for archaeological sites is maintained independently by the NZAA). The purpose of the register is to inform members of the public about such places and to assist with their protection under the Resource Management Act, THE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT ACT 1991 ARCHAEOLOGICAL PROVISIONS The RMA requires City, District and regional; Councils to manage the use, development, and protection of natural and physical resources in a way that provided for the well-being of today s communities while safeguarding the options for future generations. The protection of historic heritage from inappropriate subdivision, use, and development is identified as a matter of national importance (section 6f). Historic Heritage is defined as those natural and physical resources that contribute to an understanding and appreciation of New Zealand s history and cultures, derived from archaeological, architectural, cultural, historic, scientific, or technological qualities. Historic heritage includes: historic sites, structures, places, and area archaeological sites;

10 5 sites of significance to Maori, including wahi tapu; surroundings associated with the natural and physical resources (RMA section 2). These categories are not mutually exclusive and some archaeological sites may include above ground structures or may also be places that are of significance to Maori. Where resource consent is required for any activity, the assessment of effects is required to address cultural and historic heritage matters (RMA 4 th Schedule and the district plan assessment criteria (if appropriate). Survey Method Background research into the archaeology and subsequent history of the affected area included the examination of late 19 th and early 20 th century land plans held by Land Information NZ. New Zealand Archaeological Association database was checked for previously recorded archaeological sites, and a review of regional archaeological publications relating to the area was undertaken. The archaeological survey was undertaken on foot and involved visiting the area of all aspects of the oyster reclamation proposal, with the exception of the mangroves and the sea bed beyond the low tide mark. The survey included examination of all areas where archaeological sites could reasonably be anticipated, including subsoil exposures along the beach-flats and the base of the knoll were also examined. Three spade sized test pits were dug to ascertain the subsurface archaeological status of one beach-flat. Survey conditions were good. The likelihood of undetected subsurface archaeological remains was also considered. Archaeological and Historical Background FIGURE 4. THE RECORDED ARCHAEOLOGICIAL SITES IN THE AREA OF BEAUFORT STREET AND THE PROPOSED OYSTER RECLAMATION AREA (Courtesy of Archsite). The archaeological and historical background of the Opua area has been covered in some detail in the reports entitled Preliminary Archaeological Assessment of Section 4 (Kawakawa to Opua) of the proposed Far North Cycleway (Johnson & Callaghan 2009); the Archaeological Assessment of the proposed Stage 2 Opua Marina, Opua, Bay of Islands (Johnson & Callaghan 2014); the Archaeological Assessment of the proposed Deadman Trench and Tie-rod Service Trenches, Hill s Bay, Opua, Bay of Islands (Johnson & Callaghan 2015) and the Archaeological Site Management Plan, for the Railway track uplift

11 6 and development of Colenso Triangle (Johnson, November 2015), and these reports/documents should be referred to for the general history of the Opua area; the railway; the archaeological sites recorded, and previous archaeological work undertaken in the area. Briefly, the railway causeway across the small bay south of Beaufort Street was built during a 12 year period prior to 1884 and is recorded as an historic site (P04/1002). As with Hills Bay to the north, the small bay itself on the western side of the railway embankment has gradually filled in at the northern end from the 1970s onwards. The area to the east of the railway embankment has been used by oyster barges as a berthing/haulage area. An existing small formed access track is located over the railway embankment to a turnaround area on the beach flat. Unfortunately over recent years, the immediate area has also been subject to illegal rubbish disposal and what appears to be truck parking (Plates 1 & 2). PLATE 1. AREA OF ILLEGAL REFUSE DISPOSAL TO THE SOUTH OF THE BEACH FLAT. PLATE 2. REFUSE DISPOSED OF, AND EXPOSED, IN ERODED SHELL MIDDEN ON BEACH FORESHORE. One archaeological site Q05/877 (N15/274) was recorded in 1984 by G Nevin as part of a wider general coastal survey of the Bay of Islands. Nevin sketched the site which comprised platform, terraces and shell midden (Figure 5). The sketch shows three areas of shell midden (marked by x ). One area of shell midden was noted on the south-east of the promontory; a second on a point to the north side of the railway line (above and outside of the area of the proposal); and the third on the north-west side of the promontory (also outside of the area of the proposal). Hatched areas show additional areas of shell midden and, although Nevin does not specifically label them, they are mentioned in the text of the site record form as, there is midden in the house garden (Nevin 1984). FIGURE 5. THE 1984 SKETCH DIAGRAM ON THE Q05/877 (N15/274) ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE RECORD FORM, SHOWING THE COTTAGE. X AND MA MARK TWO AREAS OF SHELL MIDDEN. THE HATCHED AREAS ARE ADDITIONAL AREAS OF SHELL MIDDEN.

12 7 Nevin returned to the site in 1986 (as part of a previous Opua Marina proposal) and recorded further features associated with Q05/877 on the northern side of the promontory (outside the proposal area). Nevin outlines in the report that the terraced headland site Q05/877, shows no evidence of artificial defenses but suggests that as the site is located at the junction of the Kawakawa River and Waikare Inlet it may have been associated with warfare and it was possibly occupied during the 1845 wars (Nevin 1986:11). The 1986 proposal also proposed an area of fill/reclamation on the northern side of the promontory, which also affected a large area of shell midden. Nevin s general recommendation in relation to the proposal was The terraced headland, 274 [Q05/877], is in good condition and if possible should be preserved in its entirety (Nevin 1986:11). However, the specific recommendations in regard to the proposal are vague, potentially contradictory and do not appear to specifically mention the northern beach flat shell midden (Midden 4). However, recommendations included the advice to, erect a fence along M.H.W.M. to exclude machinery used in development ; that an NZHPT Authority to Modify any sites affected by the development, with investigation of the terraces to be undertaken if they were to be affected. A generic recommendation for Q05/877 was made stating, if archaeological excavation is necessary this should be completed before construction work begins (Nevin 1986:12). In 1989 J. Maingay (D.O.C) undertook an archaeological survey and assessment of a proposed access road as part of an Opua Marina Development (Maingay 1989). Maingay refers to a submission to the Harbours Act notification 1987 [made by] Syd Henare Winiata [who] described N15/274 [Q05/877] as [a] fighting Pa of the Ngati Hine people (Maingay 1989:3). Maingay summarised the site as a site of considerable archaeological interest (ibid) and recommended that an Authority for the proposed road be sought from NZHPT, with a condition for an archaeological investigation of Q05/877. No NZ Archaeological Site Record Additional Information Forms were completed as part of Maingay s survey and assessment for Q05/877 and it appears that no Authority from NZHPT was sought for the access road. The current road alignment is further to the south that that assessed by Maingay and it is assumed that this change in alignment was to protect the residential Lots above the proposed road and to avoid the shell midden exposed in the profile of the road on the western side of the railway line, and therefore did not require the authority from NZHPT. In 2006 the area of the Colenso Triangle reclamation was surveyed by Clough and Associates (Farley and Clough 2006), the survey and assessment did not extend to the area of the current oyster reclamation proposal. The current oyster reclamation proposal was also outside of the brief of works for the 2009 Twin Coast Cycleway and the 2015 Colenso Triangle railway track uplift (and relay) undertaken by NAR Ltd in 2009 and No further archaeological survey and assessments have been undertaken in the areas and no further archaeological features have been recorded on the NZ Archaeological Association site recording scheme in the area of the proposal. Old Land Plans and Images The area of the proposed works is shown on three Whites Aviation images dating to 1986, two of which are reproduced below (Plates 3-5). A cottage/ house is shown on the beach flat on the north side of the access road, with what appears to be a shed on the south side of the access road and this appears to be the same cottage marked on the 1984 NZAA site record form for Q05/877. A large area of mangroves is shown abutting the south-east side of the railway embankment. Unfortunately no earlier images have been located.

13 8 PLATE 3. DETAIL OF THE AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH OF COLENSO TRIANGLE AND THE AREA OF THE PROPOSED RECLAMATION SHOWING THE BEACH FLAT AND THE COTTAGE- View to Northwest ((Reference: WA F, Courtesy of Alexander Turnbull Library). PLATE 4. DETAIL OF THE AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH OF COLENSO TRIANGLE AND THE AREA OF THE PROPOSED RECLAMATION (INCLUDING THE BEACH FLAT AND COTTAGE) - View to North (Reference: WA F, Courtesy of Alexander Turnbull Library). PLATE 5. DETAIL OF THE AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH OF THE AREA OF THE PROPOSED RECLAMATION SHOWING THE HISTORIC HOUSE, SHED AND TRACK- View to Northeast (Reference: WA F, Courtesy of Alexander Turnbull Library).

14 9 Old land plan SO 6218 dated 1892 (Figure 6), shows the house/cottage, on the southeast side of the railway, but does not show the headland area. Old land plans ML 210, ML211 (both dated 1867), SO3270 (dated 1893) and SO42339 (dated 1960) show no cultural or historic information for the area of the proposed works. The 1922 Geological Survey Plan of the area shows the area of the railway and promontory, but the Railway cottage/house is not shown. FIGURE 6. DETAIL OF SO 6218, DATED 1892 SHOWING THE LOCATION OF THE RAILWAY COTTAGE. Survey Results As part of the archaeological survey, a number of previously unrecorded ancillary features associated with Q05/877 were located in the area of the Oyster Reclamation proposal. A New Zealand Archaeological Association Site Record Additional Information Form has been completed for Q05/877 and is appendicised in the report. A brief outline of the site is presented below. Q05/877. NZTM E N Settlement (Platform, Terraces, Shell Midden, fire-scoops) & late 19 th century historic settlement (Plate 6 ). Shell midden (previously recorded-a) is exposed eroding down the hillside at the end of the point (E N ) from what appears to be terrace a short distance above (Plate 8). The shell is exposed mostly above the foreshore. The midden extends around the end of the point over a distance of approximately 10m. Contents are mainly whole and fragmentary cockle (Austrovenus stutchburyi) and pipi (Paphies australis). Some shell appears burnt. Further shell midden (B) is exposed at the base of the hillside approximately 1m above the foreshore on the southern side of the headland (E N ) (Plates 9 & 10). The midden is exposed for some 5-6m and occurs to a depth of 30cm. Contents are mainly whole and fragmentary cockle and pipi in a black charcoal stained soil. Four small, indistinct and diffuse fire scoops (area C) are exposed at the edge of an eroding small beach flat at the base of the headland over a distance of approximately 10m. (E N ; E N ; E N ; and E N ). All are approximately 50cm long and 20cm in depth and contain fire fractured rock and charcoal (Plate 11). Other unrecorded subsurface archaeological features on the flat are very likely.

15 10 PLATE 6. THE APPROXIMATE LOCATION OF THE PREVIOUSLY RECORDED FEATURES ASSOCIATED WITH Q05/877 (GREY); LOCATION OF THE HISTORIC RAILWAY COTTAGE (F); AND PREVIOUSLY UNRECORDED FEATURES B-D. THE APPROXIMATE AREA OF POTENTIAL SUBSURFACE ARCHAEOLOGICAL REMAINS ASSOCIATED WITH Q05/877 IS MARKED RED. PLATE 7. THE AREA OF THE PROPOSED RECLAMATION, SHOWING THE BEACH FLAT (REAR) AND PART OF THE ROCK PLATFORM (FOREGROUND). THE OYSTER BARGE IS APPROXIMATELY IN THE LOCATION OF THE PROPOSED BOAT RAMP ACCESS ROAD (View to the west).

16 11 PLATE 8. PREVIOUSLY RECORDED SHELL MIDDEN (A) EXPOSED IN THE BANK ABOVE THE ROCK PLATFORM, POTENTIALLY AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED DRAINAGE WORKS. PLATE 9. THE SHELL MIDDEN FEATURE EXPOSED IN THE BANK (B) ABOVE THE RECLAMATION PROPOSAL, POTENTIALLY AFFECTED BY THE PROPOSED DRAINAGE WORKS. PLATE 10. CLOSE UP OF THE SHELL MIDDEN (B), EXPOSED IN THE BANK ABOVE THE RECLAMATION PROPOSAL. PLATE 11. A SMALL FIRESCOOP EXPOSED IN THE PROFILE OF THE BEACH FLAT (C) AFFECTED BY THE RECLAMATION PROPOSAL. PLATE 12. SHELL MIDDEN EXPOSED IN THE BEACH FLAT (D) AFFECTED BY THE RECLAMATION PROPOSAL. PLATE 13. THE SHELL MIDDEN (E) EXPOSED IN THE BANK ABOVE THE EXISTING ACCESS ROAD. Another shell midden (part previously recorded-d) occurs exposed intermittently for some 15m around the edge of the flat a short distance to the east of the Twin Coast Cycleway, inside the small mangroves (E N ) (Plate 12). Contents are again mainly whole and fragmentary cockle and pipi in a black charcoal stained soil exposed amongst pieces of discarded concrete and building waste (Plates 1 & 2).

17 12 A further shell midden (previously recorded-e) occurs exposed in the road cutting on the north-west side of the Twin Coast Cycleway and access road (E N ) (Plate 13). The site is marked by a totara tree and wooden fence post 2m to the west. Midden is exposed over an area of some 5m and occurs to a depth of approximately 30cm. The midden is dissected by a small intermittent rivulet at the east end. Contents are mainly cockle of small to medium size with a smaller quantity of pipi. A Railway cottage (F) is shown for the flat to the east of the railway (now the Twin Coast Cycleway), on old land plan SO6218 (dated 1892) and in three Whites Aviation aerial photographs (dated 1986); and is understood to have existed until the mid-late 1980s. Archaeological Significance Archaeological significance/values relate to the potential of a place to provide evidence of the history of New Zealand. The following matters must be taken into account when assessing archaeological value: Condition of the site; the sites rarity; the sites contextual value; the sites information potential; and any amenity value (NZHPT 2006:8 & HNZPT 2015). Site Value Assessment Q05/877 Platform, terraces, shell midden, firescoops; and the location of an historic railway cottage Condition Rarity/ Uniqueness Contextual Value Information Potential Amenity Value Cultural Associations The shell midden and fire-scoops are reasonable condition, under weeds and vegetation to the south west of the access track. The overall site of Q05/877 has been affected to an unknown extent by the cutting for the railway in the 1880s, dissecting the settlement site into two. The site has been further modified by the (historic) railway cottage, shed and an access track. Recently the shell midden and fire scoops on the northern side of the access track have been modified by vehicles, illegal rubbish disposal and coastal erosion. The historic railway cottage was removed at an unknown date (1980s?). The area it occupied is covered in vegetation. Q05/877 (a headland settlement) is a typical component of late pre-contact coastal settlement and is neither rare nor unique in this area of the Bay of Islands and Northland. The area of the historic railway cottage is not rare or unique. Q05/877 has contextual value as it is associated with the quite dense pre-contact archaeological landscape in this part of the Kawakawa River. The house/cottage site has contextual value in that it is related to the historic railway (P05/1002). Q05/877 has information potential (eg: dating, microfossil analysis, faunal analysis). The historic settlement site has information potential Q05/877 has amenity value as it is located on land administered by Far North Holdings Ltd, immediately adjacent to the Twin Coast Cycleway Trail and the proposed Kawakawa to Opua Vintage Railway Station, and can be accessed by the public. However, it limited by the degree of modification to the site and poor visibility. The terraced knoll/settlement site Q05/877 has cultural associations with local iwi.

18 13 Assessment of Affects The proposal to excavate and reclaim an area of seabed and beach-flat will affect archaeological remains associated with Q05/877 (terraced knoll/settlement, shell midden and fire-scoops; and a 19 th historic railway cottage). As such, any proposal for earthworks in this area will require the authority of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. As the proposal stands, the excavation of the beach flat on the northern side of the proposed boat ramp access will modify all the subsurface shell midden and fire scoops recorded as part of the fieldwork in January The proposed drainage works (Figure 3) across the beach flat will affect the area of shell midden (D) on the beach flat. In addition, the intercept swale drainage on the knoll will potentially affect the recorded shell midden and terrace features (Features A and B) located above the beach flat. As stated, the proposal as it stands will require the authority of Heritage New Zealand to modify ancillary features associated with Q05/877. The BOIVRT and OFMC are advised that any authority granted by HNZPT for these earthworks will almost certainly come with a condition for an archaeological investigation, with associated mapping, sampling and recording. The BOIVRT and OFMC are advised that an archaeological investigation, sampling and analysis, with a full recording of the site (and a final report) may have financial implications. Northern Archaeological Research Ltd is presenting three options to the BOIVRT and OFMC in regard to the proposed Oyster Reclamation area. Regardless of which option is selected, NAR Ltd initially recommends that all the archaeological features associated with Q05/877 (N15/274) are mapped by a professional surveyor, in consultation with an archaeologist, onto a topographical plan for future management and planning purposes. Secondly, NAR Ltd recommends that the proposed drainage works on the knoll and the beach flat which have the potential to affect the terraces, shell midden and further subsurface archaeological features and remains associated with Q05/877, are excluded from the proposal. If the drainage works on the knoll and beach flat are not excluded from the proposal, the proposed works will require a Heritage New Zealand Authority to modify archaeological features associated with Q05/877. NAR Ltd recommends that, as mitigation for the modification of site, these drainage works be subject to conditions which include archaeological monitoring, recording, sampling and analysis, with the potential for an archaeological investigation if it is determined during monitoring that an investigation is warranted. If changes are made to the design of the oyster reclamation area, the proposal will need to be assessed by NAR Ltd for any potential effects on archaeological remains. Option1 We would initially recommend that as a compromise, the BOIVRT and the OFMC consider redesigning the proposal to exclude all earthworks (including the intercept swale drainage on the knoll and drains on the beach flat) on the northern side of the proposed boat ramp access road to avoid all archaeological remains associated with Q05/877. The exclusion of this area from the proposal would preserve the extant archaeological remains on the beach flats and the knoll. If this redesign is adopted, the BOIVRT and the OFMC would need to give consideration to the protection and management of archaeological site Q05/877 during any development of the wider area and subsequent to any development. This can be dealt with through an archaeological site management plan, and will not require an authority from Heritage NZ.

19 14 In addition to, and as part of the archaeological site management plan, we recommend that the extant archaeological features associated with Q05/877 are surveyed on to a single topographical plan by a professional surveyor in consultation with the archaeologist. The recording of site Q05/877 properly, will realise the some of the information potential of the site, without the site being modified. The mapping of the site in full will aid the future management and maintenance of the site; and assist in the planning of any future proposals and could be used for interpretive purposes in conjunction with the BOIVRT railway station and Twin Coast Cycleway. Option 2 A further option is that of covering the physical remains of the shell midden (without removing any of the archaeological remains). This would involve the placing of a geotextile mat over the ground (and archaeological site) and then covering the mat with gravel/fill material. This method would serve to keep the archaeological features intact under the reclamation area. However, as the site is being buried, this solution will be regarded as modifying site Q05/877, and an Authority will need to be sought under Section 44(a) of the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act, Again Heritage New Zealand is likely to impose conditions which may include the full recording of the site; sampling and analysis of the site; and possibly an investigation of an area of the site, prior to the covering of the site; As with the previous option, NAR Ltd would recommend that the full recording of the site by an archaeologist in conjunction with a surveyor to be undertaken prior to any covering of the site; and we would recommend sampling of the site for dating and microfossil analysis. The recording of the site, with sampling and analysis of the shell midden will realise the information potential of the site, without the site being extensively modified and would act as mitigation for the partial modification (covering) of the site. Notwithstanding, in addition, if the alternative option (covering the site) is selected, NAR Ltd recommends that all the proposed drainage works located above the reclamation area and on the knoll (including the proposed intercept swale drain), are excluded from the oyster reclamation proposal. Option 3 If the BOIVRT and the OFMC choose to continue with the oyster reclamation area proposal as it stands, Northern Archaeological Research Ltd advises the BOIVRT and OFMC, that an application for an Authority to modify archaeological sites under Section 44(a) of the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act, 2014, will be required. If Heritage NZ grants the application, as mitigation for modifying part of Q05/877, we recommend that the site of Q05/877 is mapped in its entirety (recording of all the features of the site) on to a topographical plan for future archaeological site management purposes. It is further recommended that an archaeological investigation (with provision for sampling and analysis including microfossil analysis and radiocarbon dating) is undertaken in the area of the affected existing beach flats (C & D); and that monitoring of the earthworks in the area of the historic house (F) are monitored. Notwithstanding, if this option is the preferred option, NAR Ltd recommends that the proposed drainage works on the knoll, which have the potential to affect the terraces and shell midden associated with Q05/877, are excluded from the proposal.

20 15 Conclusion Northern Archaeological Research Ltd was commissioned by Bayplan (Kerikeri) to assess the Oyster Reclamation area and associated infrastructure at Beaufort Street, Opua, Bay of Islands. Part of archaeological site Q05/877, will be affected by the proposal. Recommendations for the mitigation and management of this site and ancillary features are made in accordance with the archaeological provisions of the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act, 2014, and standard procedures. References Callaghan, E and Johnson, L Archaeological Monitoring of a services trench at Opua, Bay of Islands (NZHPT Authority 2008/224). Unpublished Report Auckland: Northern Archaeological Research Ltd Farley, G. and Clough, R Lot 12 DP and Railway Reclamation, Paihia Road, Opua: Archaeological Assessment. Unpublished Report Auckland: Clough & Associates Ltd. Ferrar, H. T Geological Map of the Bay of Islands, Russell and Whangaruru Districts- Bay of Islands Subdivision, Kaipara Division. New Zealand Geological Survey Bulletin No27 (new Series). Wellington: Government Printer. Johnson, L. & Callaghan, E Preliminary Archaeological Assessment of Section 4 (Kawakawa TO Opua) of the Proposed Far North Cycleway Unpublished Report Auckland: Northern Archaeological Research Ltd Johnson, L. & Callaghan, E Archaeological Assessment of the Proposed Stage 2 Opua Marina, Opua, Bay of Islands. Unpublished Report Auckland: Northern Archaeological Research Ltd Johnson, L. & Callaghan, E. 2015a Archaeological assessment of the Proposed Deadman Trench and Tie-rod Service Trenches, Hill s Bay, Opua, Bay of Islands. Unpublished Report Auckland: Northern Archaeological Research Ltd Johnson, L & Callaghan,E 2015b Archaeological Site Management Plan: Uplift and relocation of Historic Railway Track and Sleepers (P05/1002) between Colenso Triangle and Opua Wharf; the excavation of Tie Rod Service Trenches; and the Development of Colenso Triangle, Opua, Bay of Islands. Unpublished Report Auckland: Northern Archaeological Research Ltd Maingay, J Archaeological Inspection of a proposed access road to Opua Marina. Unpublished Report. Auckland: Department of Conservation Nevin, G Archaeological Survey of the Coastal Region between Te Tii and Tapeka Point (including Mangonui, Kerikeri, Kawakawa, Waikino and Waikare Inlets). Unpublished Client Report Whangarei, Nevin, G Q05/877 NZAA Site Record Form Nevin, G Q05/877 NZAA Site Record Form Additional Information Form Nevin, G Archaeological Survey of the Proposed Opua Marina Site. Unpublished Report prepared for the NZHPT. Nevin, G. 1986/9. Archaeological Survey of the Proposed Marina Site. Marina. Unpublished Report. Auckland: New Zealand Historic Places Trust

21 16 Recommendations 1. It is recommended that, in consultation with an archaeologist, all the archaeological features associated with Q05/877 (N15/274) are mapped by a professional surveyor onto a single topographical plan for future management and planning purposes. 2. It is recommended that the proposed drainage works on the knoll and beach flat which have the potential to affect the terraces, shell midden and further subsurface archaeological features associated with Q05/877, are excluded from the proposal. The Bay of Islands Vintage Railway Trust and the Oyster Farmers & Maritime Contractors are advised that if the drainage works on the knoll and beach flat are not excluded from the proposal, the works will require an application to Heritage New Zealand for an authority to modify features associated with archaeological site Q05/877, under Section 44(a) of the Heritage New Zealand Act, NAR Ltd recommends that, as mitigation for the modification of site Q05/877, the drainage works are subject to conditions which include archaeological monitoring, recording, sampling and analysis, with the potential for an archaeological investigation if it is determined by the archaeologist during monitoring that an investigation is warranted. 3. It is recommended that the BOIVRT and OFMC redesign the oyster reclamation proposal to exclude all earthworks (including drainage on the knoll and beach flat) on the northern side of the proposed boat ramp access road, to avoid all archaeological remains associated with Q05/877. If the proposal is redesigned to exclude the area of archaeological site Q05/877, the Oyster Reclamation proposal may proceed without an Authority from Heritage New Zealand. An archaeological site management plan will be required to ensure Q05/877 is not affected during any development associated with either the Colenso Triangle works or the Oyster Reclamation works. 4. The BOIVRT and OFMC have the option of covering the archaeological features on the beachflat/s with geotextile matting and fill, with no excavation of the existing archaeological remains. The covering of the beach-flat/s and features associated with Q05/877 is a modification of an archaeological site and as such, the works will require an application to Heritage New Zealand for an Authority to Modify an archaeological site under Section 44(a) of the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act, NAR Ltd recommends that if an authority is granted for the covering of the beach flat features of Q05/877, Heritage New Zealand include conditions requiring the full recording of the site; and sampling and analysis (radiocarbon dating, faunal, and microfossil analysis) of the site, prior to the covering of the site. 5. If the BOIVRT and OFMC choose to continue with the oyster reclamation area proposal as it stands (including the drainage works on the knoll), the proposal will require an application to Heritage New Zealand under Section 44(a) of the Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga Act, NAR Ltd recommends that if an authority is granted, Heritage New Zealand include conditions requiring the full recording of the site; an investigation of the beach-flat/s and knoll areas; sampling and analysis (radiocarbon dating, faunal, and microfossil analysis) of the site, prior to the bulk earthworks beginning. 6. If changes are made to the design of the oyster reclamation area, the proposal will need to be assessed by NAR Ltd for any potential effects on archaeological remains.

22 APPENDIX New Zealand Archaeological Association Site Record and Additional Information Forms

23

24

25

26

27

28 NZAA SITE RECORD ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FORM SITE NO Q05/877 MAP NO:Q05 SITE NAME MAP NAME: BAY OF ISLANDS MAP EDITION: 2000 SITE TYPE: GRID REFERENCE: NZTM E N Shell Midden, firescoops; Late 19 th Century Historic settlement ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: The site was revisited on the 24 th of January Shell midden is exposed eroding down the hillside at the end of the point (E N ) from what appears to be terrace a short distance above. The shell is exposed mostly above the foreshore. The midden extends around the end of the point over a distance of approximately 10m. Contents are mainly whole and fragmentary cockle (Austrovenus stutchburyi) and pipi (Paphies australis). Some shell appears burnt. Further shell midden is exposed at the base of the hillside approximately 1m above the foreshore on the southern side of the headland (E N ). The midden is exposed for some 5-6m and occurs to a depth of 30cm. Contents are mainly whole and fragmentary cockle and pipi in a black charcoal stained soil. Four small, indistinct and diffuse fire scoops are exposed at the edge of an eroding small beach flat at the base of the headland over a distance of approximately 10m. (E N , E N , E N and E N ). All are approximately 50cm long and 20cm in depth and contain fire fractured rock and charcoal. Other unrecorded subsurface archaeological features on the flat are very likely. Another shell midden occurs exposed intermittently for some 15m around the edge of the flat a short distance to the east of the cycleway inside the small mangroves (E N ). Contents are again mainly whole and fragmentary cockle and pipi in a black charcoal stained soil exposed amongst pieces of discarded concrete and building waste. A further shell midden (previously recorded) occurs exposed in the road cutting on the north west side of the cycleway and access road (E N ). The site is marked by a totara tree and wooden fence post 2m to the west. Midden is exposed over an area of some 5m and occurs to a depth of approximately 30cm. The midden is dissected by a small intermittent rivulet at the east end. Contents are mainly cockle of small to medium size with a smaller quantity of pipi. A small hut or cottage is shown for the flat to the east of the cycleway on old land plan SO6218 (dated 1892) and in three Whites Aviation aerial photographs (dated 1986) and is understood to have existed until the mid-late 1980s. NZTM taken from shell midden east of the cycleway Reported by: Leigh Johnson and Elisabeth Callaghan Northern Archaeological Research Ltd P O Box Devonport Auckland Owner/ Manager: Far North Holdings Ltd. PO Box 7 OPUA