A police spokesperson said various stolen pieces of property, including the carved monument, were uncovered during a search warrant executed by the Waimakariri Tactical Crime Unit at an address in Leithfield Beach yesterday.
The Kaiapoi Pa onĀ Preeces Rd is an important site in local and tribal history and the monument dates back to the late 1800s.
"Police are thrilled to have found the artefact and be able to return it to its rightful place in the community," the spokesperson said.
A 40-year-old man, already facing burglary charges, is set to appear in the Christchurch District Court today. Police have also laid further charges in relation to the stolen artefact.