Media release

3 July 2025

Trig beacon to be removed from Kaputerangi Pā

The trig beacon at Kaputerangi Pā is set to be removed next week.

Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand is responsible for managing and maintaining trig stations as part of New Zealand’s geodetic measurement system. The system allows surveyors to accurately map and measure properties.

Surveyor-General Anselm Haanen says modern survey methods such as GPS mean there is less of a reliance on traditional trig beacons in surveying.

“Surveying is no longer reliant on these purpose-built structures which are expensive to maintain.

“While modern technology means trig beacons are not necessary to undertake accurate surveys, we understand many surveyors do still like to observe to a reference mark.

“We have consulted with Te Rūnanga o Ngāti Awa, and they have given their blessing for the pouwhenua at the site to be used instead as a survey reference mark.”

The trig beacon is 70 years old. The survey mark underneath the beacon will remain on site.

Work is expected to take one day to complete. While the area directly around the beacon will be fenced off, the wider site will remain open as usual.

Media contact

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