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Investigating a pā landscape

LiDAR is powerful for seeing landform, but a terrace or ditch-like feature on a hillshade does not become a pā because it looks interesting.

Research chain​

historical reference → Gazetteer/name search → historic maps → aerial imagery → LiDAR derivatives → ridges/wai/access → archaeological sources → field/other evidence

Terrain views​

Create several hillshades, not one. Add slope and contours. A multidirectional or differently illuminated surface reduces the risk of missing features aligned with the light source.

Landscape context​

Map:

  • ridge/spur system
  • nearby awa/springs/coast
  • access routes and passes
  • cultivable terraces/lowland where relevant
  • wider named landscape

The point is to understand the place in context, not hunt for shapes in a hillshade.

Public archaeological records​

Where public archaeological datasets or Heritage New Zealand records are relevant, use their stated access/reuse conditions and keep their record precision/limitations visible. Desktop imagery does not replace archaeological assessment.

Output language​

Use possible earthwork visible in LiDAR, feature consistent with... or recorded archaeological site according to the actual evidence. Do not label an unverified feature pā in a public map.

Related: Pā and archaeological landscapes, LiDAR, historical research.

Last reviewed: 26 August 2026

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