Artillery
shelter.
Photo: Janice Adamson, University of Auckland
On Wednesday, we solved the puzzle of the find distribution in Area B
of the house. The finds, mainly window glass, nails and bits of ceramic,
were part of the fill of a Maori gun fighter trench. The standard history
of the battle of Waireka talks about a quickly thrown up, lightly palisaded
hilltop pa. This hilltop defensive position was most certainly on the
hillock uphill from the excavation. What was unknown was the extent of
the defensive positions around Kaipopo pa.
We found an artillery proof shelter connected to rifle pits, although
only a small part has so far been excavated.
Fencing and other timber from the Jury property was possibly used to build
the palisade, because the later claim for compensation to the Crown after
the Land Wars states it was used to build a Maori stockade. It was thought
that the palisade was the one surrounding the pa on the hill, however
it now seems quite likely that the palisade was erected on the very place
of the homestead.
Palisade
trench in front of gun-fighter trenches
Photo: Janice Adamson, University of Auckland
As per the conditions of the Historic Places Trust archaeological authority,
iwi and the NZHPT were notified about the discovery.
In a moving ceremony Reverend Martin of Te Kotahitanga O Nga Mahanga
Tairi blessed the site.
As an introduction to the ceremony Reverend Martin allowed us a glimpse
into the wealth of the oral traditions of the hapu, telling the story
of the battle of Waireka from their point of view.
After consultation with NZHPT and iwi, we can continue the excavation
of the homestead site, and excavate the trenches and rifle pits only where
they intersect with features relating to the house.
Barbara
inside one of the storage pits.
Photo: Janice Adamson, University of Auckland
We have also been excavating some large storage pits, similar to Maori
pits, although they have very roughly dug sides. Given the context, it
is possible these are from the European occupation of the homestead. The
claim for compensation shows that Mrs Jury claimed the loss of 5 tonnes
of potatoes.
Some of the pits have a rifle trench cutting through them, indicating
the pits are earlier than the trench, and a small amount of European material,
including ceramics, has been found in them.
Today Room 6 from Omata School visited us on site after walking the old
track from their school to the homestead. They were shown around the site
and had the opportunity to help with sieving.
Students
from Omata School visit the site.
Photo: Janice Adamson, University of Auckland
"Hi everyone, I'm Barb and I just finished my honours year in
archaeology at Auckland University. I'm looking to get a bit of work experience
before I go back to do a masters and the opportunity to volunteer on Janice's
excavation is a great way to get some experience digging a historic site.
The dig has been amazing, with some exciting and interesting things
coming up every day. The crew is hard working and a lot of fun as well,
which definitely makes a difference when you're stuck in a hole with them
all day every day! Mrs Jury's has been a wonderful experience and my only
regret is not being able to stay longer."
