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Maerewhenua rock art
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This limestone escarpment contains multiple rock shelter sites and rock drawings and is an outstanding natural feature.
Sheltered by an impressive limestone overhang with amazing views over the valley, this site contains charcoal and ochre paintings dating to before the arrival of Europeans. Moa bones have been found here, indicating hundreds of years of occupation. Maerewhenua is a significant landmark in the tradition of Ngāi Tahu Whānui. This rock shelter lies within an ancient food gathering region that follows a pathway that links the mountains and the sea, along the Waitaki River.
This historic place is located on private land, but a path to the rock art site has been made accessible to the public.
Please be aware the following hazards include: traffic, slippery surfaces when wet, uneven surfaces, rock fall from above / overhang.
Update 4/6/2024: Please note, that due to a rock fall, the Maerewhenua Rock Art site is temporarily closed until further notice.
Latitude: -44.86313 Longitude: 170.68950
Easy walk
50m
Scenic views & Photo opportunities
GETTING THERE
Approximately 500m south of State Highway 83 along Livingstone-Duntroon Road the large limestone outcrop that forms this historic area is on the eastern side of the road. There's a brief uphill walk up uneven path.
Caution! Rocks still fall. Please treat this rock art site with care and respect to ensure this continues to be a special place to stop.
Visitors are requested to eat and drink only in designated areas.
Kaitiakitanga
Protection and guardianship are at the heart of the Geopark philosophy. We ask you to treat this site with respect, do not remove anything from this site and preserve it for our future generations.