Human bones found near Waihi Beach

Human bones have been found after a picnic table tumbled into a hole caused by heavy rain and stormwater runoff at Anzac Bay, near Waihi Beach.

Western Bay of Plenty District Council's manager of reserves and facilities Peter Watson said police had been to the site, along with council staff, local Maori and a Historic Places Trust archaeologist.

The archeologist identified the bones as old Maori bones and the council was now working with Otawhiwhi marae representatives on the correct protocols for dealing with the bones.

"Our intention is to get the matter resolved and reinstate the site to make it safe for the public and to give these koiwi the proper respect," Mr Watson said.

Other bones discovered next to the site last year were removed and reinterred at a cemetery.

The council would work with Otawhiwhi marae to try to prevent similar incidents.

"We would need to intercept the waterflow to take it away from the area where the bones have been found," said Mr Watson.

Photo: NZ Herald