A historic burial site was uncovered at South Bay in Kaikoura late last week.

Earthworks at a residential building site on Thursday uncovered the remains of two people.

A cultural monitor from Runanga o Kaikoura was called to the site on Kaka Rd, along with an archeologist.

It is believed one of the bodies uncovered may be that of a person of significance, following the discovery of jewellery, hand tools and ochre.

The remains have been removed from the site and will be analysed by archeologist Michael Trotter before he writes a report that will go to Runanga o Kaikoura, the Historic Places Trust and other interested parties. The discovery will also be registered with the Department of Culture and Heritage.

The remains will be reburied in a specially designated area at Takahanga Marae, in Kaikoura.

Runanga chairman Maurice Manawatu said the latest discovery was a classic example of the importance of a cultural monitor, because kaitiakitanga played an essential role in all such discoveries.

"It is about taking care and guardianship," he said.

"We have a responsibility to look after [remains] when they are found, so we hold the role of cultural monitor as a very important role."

The site would be blessed once the remains had been removed, with a further blessing to take place when they were reburied, Mr Manawatu said.