Otuataua Stonefields Historic Reserve

A peaceful place of history. I advise you read some history before you go. You will understand that stones are a testimony of how Mori people used to live and organize home and agriculture and how they have evolved with time, incl. by interacting latter with westerners. You feel the history. You understand that this place is sacred. You understand why people are ready to fight to preserve the heritage of the country. There are several trials. The park is open to public as long as you stay on trials. We then connected to the coastal trial and walked north up to another amazing preservation site with amazing birds : White-faced Heron (Aigrette face blanche), Black Swan (cigne noir), Canadian Goose (oie canadienne), Royal Spoonbill (spatule royale), Pied Stilt (chasse australienne), Paradise Shelduck (Tadorne de paradis), Yellowhammer (bruant jaune), Tui (mliphage tui)
Feb 16th, 2023

Visited yesterday, no problem getting through road block but did need to drive on roadside when turning down to Stonefields entrance because a container was in middle of rd. Was disappointed to see how neglected this fascinating site has become, very little of the stone both geological and historical formations were visible because of long kikuyu grass as it is no longer grazed by stock.The pathways had hidden rocks so care needs to be taken. All said though the views are amazing and what can be seen is worth a visit. Perhaps walking from the boat ramp foreshore path would be suitable although longer.
Mar 17th, 2023

As mentioned earlier.. main road is closed. But we parked car outside road Block and ended up having a great afternoon! It's a 600m longer walk like this. So doable. Historic Maori site. The roadblock is actually set up by the local people who live here. We had a chat with them and they were very nice. They explained why they blocked the road, which is actually a connection from airport to town, and their goals. Basically they want their land back. The natural scenery was great. But the story "behind" the roadblock made our visit extra special. BTW there are also non native NZ people using this area for a run or hike..
Feb 6th, 2023

Not open to public at the moment. There's a big barrier blocking access to the main road, and other public access. Would've have liked to have learnt more about the area and early Maori occupation.
Nov 13th, 2021

Simply stunning area. Beautiful spot and a great walk. Photographers and hikers alike will enjoy exploring this historic and little known site.
Sep 18th, 2019