Those wanting to watch archaeologists uncover some of Otago's
past are invited to a public open day at Macraes Flat next
week.
Oceana Gold and the New Zealand Historic Places (NZHPT) are
holding the archeological excavation open day at the pre-1900
Robinson farmstead complex, a collection of historic
agricultural buildings.
Those largely stone buildings, which include a house, forge,
well and sheds, are to be removed to enable further mining at
the adjacent Frasers open pit, Oceana Gold environmental
projects co-ordinator Debbie Clarke said.
Before the site is removed it will be documented by
consultant archaeologists with assistance from students and
staff from the University of Otago anthropology department,
she said.
Ms Clarke said it was "not a cheap process". Work began on
February 7 and was expected to be completed later this month.
As part of the agreement with the NZHPT, Oceana Gold will
hold a public open day between 1pm and 3.30pm on Tuesday, and
earlier that morning for schools and community groups which
have booked.
Those interested in attending should follow the signs and
park in the designated area. NZHPT staff will be on hand to
guide people around the site.
- hamish.mcneilly@odt.co.nz
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