Archeologists are excited by the discovery of a large argillite adze at a 15th century pa site near Porirua.
Team leader Pam Chester says the 40cm adze unearthed at Ngati Toa domain is the sort of find that archaeologists strive for in their careers.
"It's a very large adze, which was probably used for making canoes. It's intact which is unusual and it's very beautiful,'' she said.
Ms Chester says the adze will be registered with the Historic Places Trust after it has been dated and verified.
She told Waatea News that it will probably end up at Pataka museum in Porirua.