Otuataua Stonefields

In the year 2009, we went to Otuataua Stonefields in Auckland At first, we thought we can't go inside for a walk because it looks deserted. There's no people coming by and all you can see is a huge archaeological area but then we saw one car that is parked outside the entrance gate, so we assumed it's passable. 

The landscape is desolate and very rocky. We were very hesitant to go further but my husband said it's alright. So we just carried on. It's an enormous park and a historic area. This historic reserve was developed in 2001 and is managed by Manukau Council. 

It is also an educational resource where one can see clearly how people used to live and interact with the environment. Crops of taro and kumara which are grown readily in tropical homelands needed careful handling in the cold weather in New Zealand. To keep the soil warm, they use stones to cover the crops and extend one month before harvesting. Just to make sure that the crops are ready to be picked. 

The Stonefields are located in Mangere towards the end of Ihumatao Quarry Road - 56 Ihumatao Quarry Road, Mangere

1. From George Bolt Memorial Drive (the main road to the airport from Mangere) turn right into Ihumatao Road.

2. Go down this road almost to the end.

3. Turn right into Oruarangi Road.

4. Then take the first left into Ihumatao Quarry Road.