 These origins are still somewhat visible in that the Duck Ponds are freshwater-fed from the drainage of the crater.Pukekawa was identified by the Māori early on as one of the best sites in the isthmus area, with the north-facing side of the volcanic cone well-suited for growing kumara, while the hill itself was used for storage and as a "pā" site.The crater swamp meanwhile provided eels and water.