Dating of Ahu Structures within the La Perouse Area

The La Perouse bay area houses several large ceremonial structures, area with rock carvings, and other prehistoric sites. Hanga Ho'onu probably was favorable for settlements and provided a good harbor in prehistoric times. The area is still used as a fishing harbor and a few recently built houses are occasionally occupied by fishermen. At this location the large principal ceremonial center consisting of Ahu Heki'i and associated small platforms, is found. Other major ceremonial sites in the area are Ahu Ra'ai to the east and Ahu Te Pito te Kura to the west of Heki'i. Ahu Ra'ai may, for example, represent a secondary ritual center within this territorial unit.