Height standard changed to NZVD2016

Official Auckland height measurements

In surveying terminology, a 'vertical datum' is a starting point or a reference point for measuring heights and depths. Just as latitude and longitude help us locate places on the Earth’s surface, 'vertical datums' help us measure elevations and depths.

We have used a local 'vertical datum' height standard called AUK1946 since 1946 and this has now changed for Auckland.

We have adopted the NZVD2016 standard introduced in 2016 by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ).

Adopting the new standard

By using NZVD2016, we are ensuring Auckland projects now match other examples from around the country to the latest quality levels.

The new standard also makes it easier to exchange height information used in:

• geographic products (for example, elevation datasets)
• infrastructure
• planning
• consents.

Consistency in height standards is essential for:

• managing water resources
• assessing hazards
• completing large-scale engineering works.

Changes with geospatial data collections

Our geographical datasets containing height information (for example, elevation, contours) were updated on 1 July 2024.

Asset datasets (for example, stormwater) will have both height standards available.

Height data for current and future projects

If you supply information to us that contains geographical height data, you must submit it using a specific datum, depending on when your project started.

Projects started before 1 July 2024

These projects may be submitted using AUK1946, unless a council contract specifies otherwise.

Projects started after 1 July 2024

These projects must be submitted using NZVD2016, with the exception that you may supply information using AUK1946 for projects:

• designed before 1 July 2024 that include topographical surveys, engineering plans for resource consent, flood reports and work related to height. The application must include a constant or offset for the location (for example, on the plans)
• approved by Auckland Council on a case-by-case basis.

Email geospatialopendatasupport@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz for help and advice on using the NZVD2016 height standard.

More information

Visit NZVD2016 information for councils for more details about the standard.