The incidental or accidental discovery of kōiwi tangata human skeletal remains is the most common event that people are likely to encounter. This scenario can vary from the reporting by a member of the public of the discovery of individual bones, to the discovery of kōiwi tangata human remains during development earthworks. 

Different responses may be required and each situation will need to be addressed on a case-by-case basis. There are standard procedures that must be followed in each instance.