The Geology
Kaiwhata rivermouth
One of the unique aspects to our property are the geological features that can be found at the Kaiwhata rivermouth. The most renowned features are the 8000 year old petrified remains of a coastal totara forest, which are clearly visible at low tide. While they look like normal tree stumps, they have in fact been turned to stone through the process of ‘permineralization’, which in this case occurred due to rising sea levels which buried the forest in a layer of sand and silt, preventing them from rotting and fossilising them. The gradual rising of New Zealand’s land mass has since lifted them to be visible to the naked eye. These particular trees are remarkable due to the relatively short time in which they have they have petrified, a process which can take millions of years.
The reef
South of the rivermouth lies a reef which has been a source of kaimoana for locals for hundreds of years. The reef runs along a section of steep cliff, which showcases a series of ripples and folds formed by the movement of compacted sand when the rocks were formed. Spreading out from the base of this cliff and making up the base of the reef are tilted sandstone beds, which protrude up at an angle, and contain fragmented plant material from a distant landmass. At low tide the reef can be easily explored on foot (appropriate footwear recommended), to admire the ecosystem that calls it home. Paua and Crayfish are common finds in the deeper pools on the far side of the reef, and the outer rocks are a common resting spot for seals.
