Bones unearthed on Taupo highway may be ancient moa

Taupo Mayor Rick Cooper is excited at what is thought to be the remnants of a family of ancient Moa on the ETA highway which is currently being constructed on the outskirts of Taupo.

Work came to a halt on the site when heavy machinery unearthed what are believed to be the remains of two adult and one smaller set of Moa bones. Workers onsite took immediate steps to protect the site and enact the archaeological protocol which requires work in the area to stop immediately and appropriate parties including archaeological technicians, iwi and local authorities be promptly notified.

Mayor Rick Cooper says, “what a fantastic find if we are indeed looking at ancient Moa bones.”

"If the bones are confirmed as being Moa we can identify the best way forward following discussion with all parties. For me personally, I would like to see these remains brought back to Taupo where they can be protected as cherished artefacts for the people of Taupo," said Mayor Cooper.

Group Manager Ted Anderson says Council’s Hapu monitors, Fulton Hogan and the project’s archaeological team spent a large part of Wednesday working through the site to ensure that all of the remains were identified and carefully removed. “While further study is required, this significant find has highlighted the vast history of this area,” said Mr Anderson.

The 40 plus items are to be sent to Auckland Museum for analysis and will be returned once completed. Discussions will then take place with the appropriate people including kaumatua from local hapu.