Human remains discovered at Waikato construction site believed to be pre-1900s

Human remains were found at a construction site in Te Awamutu. Photo / Google Maps
Human remains were found at a construction site in Te Awamutu. Photo / Google Maps

Human remains, established as pre-1900s, have been dug up at a Waikato residential development site.

The remains were found yesterday morning near Frontier Rd, Te Awamutu, Sergeant Rob Pierce said.

The area is a part of Waipa District Council's T2 growth cell, which will provide a new retirement village, residential properties and a local reserve.

The historic remains were found by digger workers carrying out earthworks.

Heritage New Zealand senior archaeologist Dr Rachel Darmody helped police with identification, through a photo.

The developers were also instructed to stop working and engage with local iwi who would uplift the bones.

Pierce said a skull and other bones were discovered.