Walking moai theory and 2025 drone survey of Rano Raraku quarry. Road moai have rounded, D-shaped bases and lean forward, indicating they were moved upright Full-size replica moai have been walked by teams of as few as 15 people using ropes In 2025, over 11,000 drone photos were used to build a full 3D model of Rano Raraku quarry
A 2025 drone survey used 11,000+ photos to build a full 3D model of Rano Raraku quarry on Rapa Nui. Researchers identified around 30 separate work areas with statues facing different directions. Nearly 400 unfinished moai remain in the rock, some meant to exceed 20 meters tall. Work appears to have been steady, century-long family group activity rather than a frantic race. Full-size replicas have been walked upright by teams of just 15 people.
Key Facts
- Road moai have rounded, D-shaped bases and lean forward, indicating they were moved upright
- Full-size replica moai have been walked by teams of as few as 15 people using ropes
- In 2025, over 11,000 drone photos were used to build a full 3D model of Rano Raraku quarry
- The 2025 survey found around 30 separate work areas with statues heading out in all directions
- Quarry work appears to have been steady activity by different family groups over centuries, not a frantic race
- Nearly 400 moai statues remain unfinished in the rock at Rano Raraku
- Some abandoned statues would have stood over 20 meters if completed
Related site: Rano Raraku — view location, images, and history on the Ancient Nerds map.
Source: Something Was Very Wrong With Easter Island by Michael Button