An ancient waka dug out of Muriwai Beach last year has revealed some surprises.
The Auckland Regional Council's heritage specialist, Robert Brassey says restorers have spotted a socket for a mast, making it a rare example of a sailing canoe.
The seven metre kauri canoe was moved on Tuesday from a temporary tank at the Muriwai parks depot into a more permanent container. Mr Brassey told Waatea News that preservation could take two years.
Once preservation is complete, the waka can be put on display, after consultation with iwi.