Frequently Asked Questions time! First, great places where you can gather information about the archaeology and the heritage of New Zealand : Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga site: https://www.heritage.org.nz/ and New Zealand Archaeological Association site: www.nzarchaeology.org/

Q&A:

Question: How can I know if my project is in sensitive area for archaeology?

Answer: The correct answer to this question is vital. To start, you can do a few checks by yourself. Below are two free ways to check the area or the places of concern. However, other comprehensive sources of information are available only via paid subscription. Angel’s Archaeology has access to these sources and can perform viable Yes/No checks and archaeological assessments for your project. You can use the publicly available information for your reference. Still, it will be up to the professionals and Heritage New Zealand to decide what level of archaeological involvement your project will need. So, where to look? The map of the archaeological sites supported by NZAA is a great start. You can access it here:: https://archsite.eaglegis.co.nz/NZAAPublic. Every ‘star’ symbol shown on the map is an archaeological site. Suppose you plan to work within the area of any given site or its proximity (proximity decided on a case-by-case basis). In that case, you will need an archaeological assessment and possibly an archaeological authority. Bear in mind that this map changes daily and is not the only source of archaeological information. Another place where you can look is the New Zealand Heritage List/Rārangi Kōrero (formerly the Register) for information about New Zealand’s significant heritage places. It has nearly 6000 entries, and it is accessible here: https://www.heritage.org.nz/the-list/about-the-list. It is highly advisable to check these sources and contact archaeological consultancy like Angel’s Archaeology before any earthworks and modifications. Failure to do so can lead to significant fines from Heritage New Zealand. Our role is to guide you through this process and find the best possible outcome for your project.

Question: What are the fines for modifying or destroying an archaeological site without authority?

Answer: The maximum penalty is a fine of $150,000 (natural person) or $300,000 (other person) for destruction or $60,000 (natural person) or $120,000 (other person) for modification (Section 85 from HNZPT Act 2014).

Question: How long it takes for the application for archaeological authority to be accepted and proceeded?

Answer: The confirmation for acceptance is five working days from receipt at the relevant office of Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga. Then the decision making time is 20 working days depending on the complexity of the project.

Question: We have the authority, can we start the excavation?

Answer: Not immediately. 15 working day appeal period begins from the date when the authority was issued (plus three working days to allow receipt by all parties if sent by post), during which work cannot start.