Outdoor
Sign
Manual

ISBN: 0-478-01512-7
© Copyright. All right reserved. No part of this publication
may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or
transmitted by any means without authorisation.
Edition number 1
Published 1994
Department of Conservation
Wellington
New Zealand
September 1994

1. Introduction
This manual is intended for use by those people
installation (as scale or full-size mock-ups) and
responsible for the design, construction and mainte-
evaluate them after installation to see if they are
nance of signs located on land managed by the
fulfilling their purpose.
Department of Conservation. It describes the
Management Communication Needs
format of the Department’s sign system.
Managers and providers of facilities and services
Signs are used to influence behaviour of
will also want to use signs to identify, direct, warn
visitors and enable them to find and enjoy the
and inform. Many management problems can be
opportunities on land managed by the Department.
alleviated by communicating a message to visitors.
Before designing a sign, define the communica-
Key message objectives will include:
tion need and consider other options for getting
•
welcoming visitors;
the message across.  These could include the use of
•
encouraging appropriate use and understand-
brochures, maps or alterations to the site that will
ing of the conservation resource;
eliminate the need to communicate.  Where a sign
is required the message should be a balance of
•
promoting the safety of visitors;
what visitors want to know and what the managing
•
protecting the conservation resource;
organisation wants to tell them.
•
identifying public land and the manager of any
Keep the total message, including symbols,
particular resource.
concise, especially with identification, directional
Objective
and warning signs read from vehicles.  Travelling at
The objective is to provide a sign system that:
speed reduces the amount of time available to
•
communicates clearly, provides messages
notice, read and respond to a sign.
that are easy to read and understand;
•
is cost effective;
Visitor Information Needs
•
reflects positively on the Department.
Different people have different information needs.
Types of visitor include overseas visitors, young, old,
The system is comprehensive in its cover and
people with disabilities, first time visitors, pedestri-
will work to integrate all types of signs yet allow for
ans, cyclists, horse riders and those in cars.  Their
flexibility in meeting a diverse range of needs.
particular needs will affect the content and com-
Scope
plexity of the sign, as well as the height, size and
This manual applies to all outdoor signs except
placement angle.  Visitors require signs that:
where specified below, or where the separate and
•
identify or locate an area, facilities, services or
written approval of the Director, Visitor Services
features of the environment;
Division has been given.  This manual replaces all
•
direct them to an identifiable destination;
previous instructions and existing sign manuals.
•
warn of danger;
The manual applies to:
•
inform and orientate by providing details about
•
outdoor signs erected by the Department,
a location and the regulations that apply.
including signs on departmental buildings;
Most visitors have little knowledge of the
•
marine reserve markers (see appendix);
places they visit.  They may need more or different
•
signs associated with historic or cultural sites
information than expected and will often interpret
or features on land managed by the Depart-
information in unexpected ways. It is often useful
ment. Special care is required to avoid com-
to ask visitors what they want or need to know at
promising the integrity of historic or cultural
each location.  Wherever possible ‘test’ signs before
sites or features.
September 1994
1.1

Use of the manual is discretionary for:
•
signs on approved New Zealand Walkways
where the land the walkway passes through is
not wholly owned by the Department;
•
concessionaire signs by negotiation. All new or
renewed leases, licences and permits should
specify compliance with this manual;
•
replacement of signs which are culturally or
historically significant and as such are worthy
of protection in their own right;
Excluded from the manual are:
•
traffic control signs on roads. These
signs should comply with “The Manual of
Traffic Signs and Markings”, Edition 3
1992 (TNZ/MOT);
•
areas designated and managed as wilder-
ness. No signs are to be erected in these
areas;
•
marine navigation aids;
•
triangular fire signs;
•
poison warning signs (see appendix).
Manual Review
This manual has been developed in a loose-leaf
format so that new and amended information
can be easily added.
Feedback and suggestions from users of
the manual are welcome and should be
forwarded to the Director, Visitor Services
Division, Head Office of the Department of
Conservation.
1.2
September 1994

2. The Visual Image
Area identifier
Identifying band
Corporate
Fiordland
signature
National Park
Primary
message
Monowai
Secondary
message
Historic site
Symbols
Sign board
Sign Board
possible request a colour sample from your sup-
Rectangular, normally in the landscape format.
plier before committing yourself to production.
Matt finishes are preferred over high gloss but
Sign Size
either may be used. Gloss and matt finishes look
Sign size is dictated by the amount and size of text
quite different so the choice should be used
and other graphics.  The sign must be of adequate
consistently within a locality.
size to be easily read within the constraints of
The following colours are to be applied:
regulation, cost and environment.
•
background colour and posts:
Keep the total message, including symbols,
dark green
short, especially on identification, directional and
based on PMS 553;
warning signs read from vehicles.  Travelling at
speed reduces the amount of time available to
• primary information (main message text
notice, read and respond to a sign.  As a guide, limit
and graphics):
yellow
the message that will be read from moving vehicles
based on PMS 123;
to 10 items of information.
•
corporate signature, area identifier, other
Many products used in sign manufacture are
approved logos:
white;
supplied in 2.4 m x 1.2 m sheets so there can be
•
slash on symbols:
red
cost benefits to keeping within these dimensions,
based on PMS 186.
but effective communication should be the final
Identifying Band
dictate on sign dimension.
A yellow band is used to draw attention to the sign
Signs which exceed size constraints detailed in
and provide a visual link between signs. It runs
your district scheme may require resource consent.
across the top of all signs, covering the full width
Colour
excluding the post or other mounting system. It
One colour scheme is applied throughout New
can also be used to give added protection to the
Zealand. Colour swatches are included in this
top edge of the sign board, but on single-sided
manual. Use the colour swatches to match paints
signs the yellow band preferably does not appear
rather than simply specifying a colour code.  Where
on the back.
September 1994
2.1

Text
apply to orientation signs which are generally
Type
viewed from close by, are more complex and for
which text sizes may be considerably smaller.
Uppercase letter
Serif
Ascender
All sizes specified in this sign system relate to
Cap-height
Typography x-height
the height of capital letters (not x-height).  These
Baseline
Descender
Kerning
Lowercase letters
are the minimum sizes recommended.
Take special care to make sure that warning
The typeface family for the sign system is ITC
signs are easily seen.
Garamond. Ensure that:
Alignment
•
this is the only typeface used;
Flush left, aligned with the wordmark where used,
• text
is only written in lower case with the
ragged right.
appropriate capitals applied;
•
upper case is not used for whole words;
Corporate Signature
•
ITC Garamond Book and ITC Garamond Book-
The corporate signature comprises the logo and the
Italic are used for the wordmarks of the
wordmark. In all cases the logo is to be used with
corporate signature.  These are “embedded” in
the full departmental wordmark.  The design of the
the computer file of the signature and cannot
logo is protected by law and may not be altered.
be altered. (They are rendered as graphic
Two configurations are approved for signs:
rather than text so that the corporate signature
•
configuration 1 (horizontal in two lines) for
can be produced by any computer output
use on all signs except boundary markers and
device, e.g., laser printer, vinyl cutter.)
bollards;
•
ITC Garamond Bold is used for text on naming,
directional, warning and regulatory signs
(see section 4);
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz
1234567890$%&!?(.,;:)
ITC Garamond Bold
•
configuration 2 (vertical in three lines), used
•
ITC Garamond Book is used for the main text
only for boundary markers and bollards.
blocks on detailed orientation signs;
ABCDEFGHIJKLMNOPQRSTUVWXYZ
abcdefghijklmnopqrstuvwxyz
1234567890$%&!?(.,;:)
ITC Garamond Book
Letter spacing (kerning) follows the ITC Garamond
standard (with the exception of the wordmark
which has been altered). Do not compress or
expand kerning to adjust overall sign size.
Some typographical attributes of the
Letter Size
wordmark have been altered from standard ITC
Garamond so only the officially supplied versions of
Size of lettering should be dictated by likely speed
the logos can be used – do not attempt to re-create
of approach, distance from which the sign will be
the logo on computer.
read and sign location. Check the layout diagram
on page 2.10 for a guide to letter size. It does not
2.2
September 1994

The corporate signature will be used on:
•
NZ Walkways on national walkways.  The
•
signs on the boundary of or at the entrance to
portrait format is for use on Flexopost markers
areas managed by the Department;
and bollards only;
•
key directional signs at roadends;
•
signs that identify major facilities such as huts
and campsites that are operated by the
Department;

•
orientation signs;
•
regulatory signs;
•
Environmental Care Code on orientation signs,
•
signs identifying departmental buildings.
always accompanying the 10-point checklist or
full version of the code.
Other Departmental Logos
Departmental regional and park logos may not be
used.  They have been replaced by the area identi-
fier which gives the park or reserve name.
Only the following national logos may be used
on signs.  They will always be produced in white.
•
World Heritage Area used on all sign types;
Use of other logos, including those associated
with business units, must be approved by the
Director, Visitor Services Division.
Other Agencies
Concessionaires, Sponsors and Partners Logos
Dependent on the type and significance of the
relationship, these logos may be used either in
•
Great Walks, Back Country Huts, and Conserva-
place of the locality identifier (where it is just a
tion Campsites only on detailed signs e.g.
logo or logo and simple wordmark) or along the
orientation, interpretation (see section 4);
base of the sign whenever more text is required.
The size of another agency’s logo should
visually equate with the Department’s corporate
signature and will be printed in white only. In the
case of multiple sponsors or partners, acknowledg-
ment should be placed at the base of the sign.

If it is necessary to display other agencies’
corporate colours use a separate board below the
main sign board.
Information
Information
Other agency
September 1994
2.3

Concessionaire Signs
Arrows
It may be desirable in certain situations to incorpo-
The arrow symbol as shown in NZS 8603:1992 is
rate concessionaires’ signs into the Department’s
not to be used on signs.  The approved arrow is
sign system.  This will be a matter for negotiation as
based on a square format to allow rotation.
part of a concessionaire’s licence.
•
Arrows may point left, right, up or down and at
Heritage Trails and Scenic Routes
45 degrees between those points.
It is becoming increasingly common for local and
regional agencies to develop sign systems that
promote visitor attractions.  These often include
places managed by the Department.
Such signs, including Heritage Trails and scenic
route signs, may be used to indicate Department
•
Where one arrow is used on a sign it may be
facilities from the road but will not be used on land
placed on the side of the text closest to the
managed by the Department.
destination, e.g., where”Hut” is to the right:
Area Identifier
An area identifier may be used to remind visitors of
the status or tenure of an area. It should not be
Hut
used as the primary means of naming a place.The
name used in the area identifier should already have
been used as the main message on a previous sign.
where “Hut” is to the left (unless that space is
The area identifier should always appear in the
already occupied by a symbol):
top right of the sign with a vertical line to its left.
The line length equals the height of the logo.  The
text aligns vertically with the Department’s
Hut
wordmark and uses the same text size as the words
“Department of Conservation” in the wordmark. It
normally aligns right with information on the body
of the sign but must never be closer to the corpo-
•
Where two or more arrows are used on the
rate signature than a distance equal to three times
same sign, all arrows will be placed to the right
the main cap height.
of the text regardless of the direction.
Hut
Tararua
Forest Park
Hut
•
Arrows are to be grouped according to direc-
tion. Show closest destinations first.
2.4
September 1994

Symbols
•
Symbols which imply direction, e.g., “mountain
Symbols require less space than words and are
biking” may be used in left- and right-facing,
recognised by many non-English speaking visitors.
uphill and downhill versions as appropriate.
Symbols can be used to indicate facilities, services
These options are adaptations and have not
or activities.  The Department has adopted the New
been formally adopted in the New Zealand
Zealand Standards Association Outdoor Recreation
Standard.
Symbols (NZS 8603:1992) with the exception of
the arrow.
Symbols that conflict with NZS 8603 are not to
be used. Symbols are not to be altered in any way
and are to be produced with square corners as
shown. Occasions may arise where there is no
appropriate NZ Standard symbol. Suggestions and
designs for new symbols must be submitted to
Visitor Services Division, Head Office for approval
and development in the style of New Zealand
•
A diagonal slash across the symbol indicates
Standard 8603, and, if appropriate, inclusion within
that the facility, service or activity is prohibited.
the standard.
The red slash runs from the top left to bottom
Ensure that each use of a symbol has a valid
right corner.
reason. Do not use symbols simply for visual effect.
•
Symbols will normally be printed in dark green
on a yellow background.
Hut
•
Symbols with a prohibition slash are grouped
to the right of other symbols.  The groups are
separated by a space equal to the width of one
symbol.  The space between symbols equals
•
If using reflectorised vinyl lettering the symbol
half the width of one symbol.
may be printed in yellow on a dark green
background with a thin yellow border.
Hut
•
Use up to five symbols on identification,
directional, and warning signs and up to ten
symbols on information signs.
September 1994
2.5

Approved Symbols
NZ Standard 8603 Symbols
NZ Standard 8603 Outdoor Recreation Symbols,
except for the arrow, are approved for use on signs.
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9
10
Airstrip Anchorage
Barbecue
Boat Fishing
Boat Launching
Boat Mooring
Bridge Loading
Bus
Campervan Camping
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Canoeing Caravan  Caving  Chairlift Climbing
Close the Gate
Cycling Danger
Dangerous Water
Disabled Access
21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Diving
Dog on Leash
Dog
Drinking Water
Dumping Station
Falling Rocks
Fire
Fire Extinguisher
First Aid
Fishing
31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40
Four-wheel Drive
Gamebird Hunting
Gas Cooking
Geology Gold
Panning Gondola
Hang Gliding
Helicopter
Horse Riding
Hunting/Shooting
41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50
Hut
Ice Skating
Information Interpretation Walk
Jet Skiing
Jogging Lookout  Men  Motorboat Mountain Bike
51 52 53 54 55 56 57 58 59 60
Orienteering Paragliding Parapenting  Parking Path
Photography Picnicking  Playground Power
Point Rafting
61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70
Route Rowboat Rubbish  Sailing  SCUBA
Shellfish Gathering
Shelter
Shower Ski
touring Skiing – Downhill
71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80
Smoking Surfing Swimming Telephone
Tobogganing Toilets
Trail
Bike Tramping
Track  Vehicle  Visitor
Centre
81 82 83 84 85 86
87 Do Not
88 Do Not
Walking Track
Water Skiing
Wildlife
Windsurfing Women Youth Hostel
Feed Keas
Remove Veg
2.6
September 1994

Non-NZ Standard 8603 Symbols
Arrow and other symbols not included in NZ
Standard 8603 but approved for use on signs.
N1 N2 N3 N4 N5 N6 N7 N8
Arrow
Abseiling Accommodation
Fuel
Launch Meals Seal Tea
Rooms
September 1994
2.7

Layout
• the yellow band and the corporate signature
The diagram on page 2.10 shows layout specifica-
are “locked” to the spaces below them, that is,
tions for six commonly used letter sizes (based on
they determine the amount of space below to
the cap height of the main message). Signs can be
establish the position of the first primary
made to any intermediate size but should use the
message. If the corporate signature is not used
same proportions as the nearest smaller size shown
the space below it is not used either.  All other
in the diagram.  The relative sizes of elements and
elements are “locked” to the space above them.
spaces on a sign differ for each of these sizes
Elements are also “locked” to the space to the
shown in the diagram: the spaces are relatively
right of them. Using the diagram on page 2.10
larger for smaller signs to improve legibility.  To
as an example, if the camping symbol on the
design a sign of intermediate proportions, use the
first line were removed, the space to its right
dimensions for the nearest smaller size on the
would also be removed so that everything
diagram then proportionately scale up the com-
would align below the beginning of the
plete layout to the desired size.
wordmark. If “Secondary message” were
removed, the space above it would go as well.
Features of the layout to note are:
Detailed signs
•
for signs containing the corporate signature,
nothing is positioned below the logo. Informa-
Signs containing detailed text and/or graphics e.g.,
tion aligns with the left of the wordmark;
orientation, interpretation signs, require individual
layout solutions. Manual standards regarding use of
•
a symbol appearing on the same line as the
the yellow band, corporate signature, and typefaces
main text is left “hanging”: subsequent lines of
apply. Colour scheme should be based on the
information align with the beginning of the
standard yellow and dark green but additional
first line of text;
colours may be introduced for graphic purposes
•
the space between symbols equals half the
(for example see section 4).
width of one symbol. Symbols with a prohibi-
tion slash are grouped to the right of the other
Posts
symbols.  A space equal to the full width of one
•
Posts are coloured dark green.  They should
symbol separates the prohibition symbols from
have no other colours nor adornments at-
the others;
tached to them.
•
the area identifier, if used, always appears in
•
Posts may extend above the sign board the
the top right of the sign with a vertical line to
minimum distance required to achieve fixing.
its left.  The line length equals the height of the
•
When determining post dimensions consider
logo.  The text is to align vertically with the
their visual balance in relation to the dimen-
Department’s wordmark and uses the same
sions of the sign board. For example, with
text size as the words “Department of Conser-
some materials it may be possible to achieve
vation” in the wordmark. It normally aligns
adequate strength with very narrow posts but
right with information on the body of the sign
they may look out of proportion.
but must never be closer to the corporate
signature than a distance equal to three times
Bollards
the main cap height.  The area identifier is
never used on signs without the corporate
signature;
2.8
September 1994

Bollards (or symbol posts) are useful for displaying
symbols and arrows.
•
They conform to the yellow and green colour
specifications of the sign system.
•
Ensure that the space around the sides and
between symbols is adequate to provide a
good visual balance. This will be influenced by
factors such as the thickness, width, and height
of the bollard. As with symbols on sign boards,
establish a greater space to separate prohibi-
tion symbols from others.
•
A combination of no more than three of the
corporate signature, an arrow and symbols may
be used on bollards.
September 1994
2.9

Layout Diagram
Right margin
0
45
60
90
105
11
135
Space after arrow
15
15
30
30
35
45
Arrow
30
60
90
120
160
210
Name of
Park or Reserve etc
Space after vertical line
12
15
18
21
24
30
Thickness of vertical line
3
5
6
9
12
15
Space after message
5
30
45
60
90
11
150
symbol
Space to prohibition
45
90
120
150
190
240
Space between symbols
45
60
75
95
22.5
120
separate line
45
90
Width of symbol on
120
150
190
240
Space to text
15
30
45
60
75
90
Symbol on text line
30
60
90
120
160
210
Left margin
0
45
60
90
105
11
135
Main cap height (mm)
30
60
90
120
160
210
90
75
90
210
105
135
180
135
210
120
180
210
120
240
150
5
0
100 km/h
95
75
60
75
160
11
155
11
160
105
145
160
105
190
125
90 km/h
90
90
90
60
45
60
90
120
105
135
120
120
120
150
105
70 km/h
90
60
75
60
90
60
90
90
45
30
45
75
90
105
120
40 km/h
60
45
60
90
45
60
45
60
60
30
30
30
60
90
60
20 km/h
30
30
45
60
30
30
30
30
30
15
15
15
30
45
45
peed
g s
avellin
tr
um
axim
M
Main cap height (mm)
Band
Space below yellow band
Corporate signature
Space below corp. signature
Cap, symbol height
Space if 2nd line of message
Space if new message
Cap height
Space above first 2y message
Space above other 2y message
Cap height 2y message
Space above symbols
Symbol height
Base
2.10
September 1994

3. Language
Simplicity
priate to use the correct symbol alongside each
Keep language simple and direct. Use short sen-
name. In these situations the symbol will be the
tences and common words.  Avoid jargon, sexist and
first item on the line (see diagram page 2.10).
culturally insensitive language at all times and
Maori language
scientific words wherever possible.
It will often be appropriate to use Maori language
When using scientific names use the common
on signs.  When using full sentences of Maori the
name (where available) first.  Write out the wording
message should also be provided in English.  Take
and try to eliminate unnecessary words while
special care to get Maori language correct, includ-
retaining the meaning. For example:
ing checking the text with the conservancy
“To the car-parking area” may be reduced
kaupapa atawhai manager.
progressively to:
Where a place or feature has both a Maori and
• Parking
an English name the alternative name can be
•
displayed in italics.
When Maori words are used in English text
The New Zealand Style Book published by
their use should conform to English grammar but
GP Publications Ltd should be used for general
retain their own spelling. Maori syllables always
reference.
end with a vowel, therefore plural forms of Maori
words are spelt the same as the singular – do not
Being positive
add an ‘s’. Long-sounding vowels are denoted by a
Keep all messages positive. Do not attempt to
macron above the vowel.
frighten visitors.  When reminding visitors of their
Maori names for plants and animals do not
obligations in an area take the opportunity to also
have an initial capital letter unless they are part of a
inform them of positive aspects such as the recrea-
place name, e.g., rimu and Rimu Stream.
tion opportunities available.
Scientific Language
Avoid large groups of prohibitive symbols. It
will often be appropriate to inform people what
Genus, species, subspecies, variety and form names
they are allowed to do as well. Use firm but posi-
should be written in italics. Use an initial capital
tive language for regulatory and warning signs.
letter for genus or higher names. Use all lower case
letters for species names and lower.  A genus name
Places Managed by the Department
may be abbreviated to its initial capital letter if the
Area Identifier
name has already appeared in the text and if the
Include the full status of the area described, viz.,
abbreviation will not cause confusion with other
National Park, Nature Reserve, National Reserve,
generic names.  The abbreviations “sp.”, “ssp.”, “var.”,
Scientific Reserve, Scenic Reserve, Recreation
etc., always appear in roman style, not italic, e.g.,
Reserve, Wildlife Management Reserve, Forest Park,
Phormium cookianum ssp. hookerianum.
Conservation Park.
Foreign Language
Track Classification
Before using foreign languages on signs consider
Include the classification as part of the name of a
other options such as symbols and/or brochures.
track, viz., path, track, route. Use the appropriate
Information in alternate languages should be
symbols to differentiate barrier-free paths from
limited to danger warnings, regulations and selected
others and walking tracks from tramping tracks.
information.
Where tracks are listed on a sign it may be appro-
September 1994
3.1

Common Words
Abbreviations denoting proper names or titles use
Use
Not
capitals, e.g., M.F.E. – Ministry for the Environment.
Toilets Lavatories, conveniences, loo, WC
Place-names
Women Ladies
Place-names start with an upper case letter. Use
Men
Gents, gentlemen
place-names recognised by the New Zealand
Roadend  Road end
Geographic Board.  These will generally be shown
Abbreviations
on Department of Survey and Land Information
topographical maps. It may be appropriate to use
Abbreviations of measurement have the same
alternative names in association with the official
singular and plural form and do not have full stops
name. In such circumstances the alternative should
after them. Use a thin space (t-space) between the
not appear alone and should use the secondary
number and the unit abbreviation.
message letter size relevant to the size used for the
•
Time
official name (refer to layout diagram page 2.10).
minute(s) min
not
mins
hour(s) hr
not
hrs
Time
•
Speed
Time is to be used as the primary guide for pedes-
kilometre(s) per hour
km/h not kmph
trian traffic. Measurement in metres or kilometres
cubic meters per second
m3/s
may be provided as secondary information.  When
meters per second
m/s
giving times to destinations:
knot kn
• use average to slightly slower than average
•
Length/Distance
times relevant to most visitors;
millimetres mm
not
mms
•
use hours and minutes rather than decimal
metre(s) m
not
ms
time or fractions. (1 hr 30 min not 1.5 nor
kilometre(s) km
not
kms
11/2hr);
•
Weight
•
all times are to be one-way unless otherwise
gram g
not
gms
stated on the sign.  Appropriate options are:
kilogram kg
not
kgs
•
return (time to a destination and return
to the starting place via the same route);
Street St
•
round trip (time to complete a circuit
Road Rd
returning to the starting place).
Mountain Mt
For times:
Point Pt
Subspecies ssp.
•
up to 5 minutes round to the nearest minute,
Variety var.
e.g., 4 min;
Form f.
•
between 5 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes
New Zealand
N.Z.
round to the nearest multiple of 5, e.g, 25 min;
•
Do not abbreviate:
•
between 1 hour 30 minutes and 4 hours round
National Park
to the next multiple of 30 minutes,
Forest Park
e.g., 3 hr 30 min;
Department of Conservation
•
over 4 hours round to the next full hour,
Conservancy
e.g., 5 hr.
Field Centre
Distance
Barbecue
3.2
September 1994

Distance is to be used as the primary guide for
vehicular traffic.
•
Use metres for distance below 1 km, e.g.,
750 m, not .75 km.
•
Use kilometres for distances above 1 km, e.g.,
1.3 km, not 1300 m.
Order
Structure key messages in a logical progression. Try
to give the most important information first. Group
similar messages together and order destinations as
they will be reached.
The Metric System
Measurements will use ISO units. In historical
situations it may be appropriate to include the
equivalent imperial measures in addition to the
metric.
•
Distance/length: millimetres, metres,
kilometres,
nautical miles
•
Altitude: metres
•
Weight: grams, kilograms, tonnes
•
Volume: millilitres,
litres,
cubic metres,
cubic metres per second
•
Speed:
kilometres per hour,
metres per second,
knots
September 1994
3.3

4. Sign Types
Signs are sometimes described according to the
Finger Sign
function they perform or by the construction style,
A landscape format sign (large length, small depth)
whichever is more convenient.  The following
on a single post, used as a direction sign for pedes-
terms are commonly used. Many signs are combina-
trians. Capital letters do not exceed 50 mm high.
tions of the types described here.
Flag Sign
Annual Sign
A portrait format sign (small length, large depth) on
A sign which is erected for short periods and
a single post, normally used as a roadside informa-
removed repeatedly throughout its life and is
tion sign where advanced warning is required.
therefore made of durable materials but is designed
Flexopost
to facilitate removal.
A flexible polyethylene post that can be used for
Bollard
boundary marking and route marking.
A single post on which symbols are displayed to
Historic Sign
indicate an activity, facility and/or direction.  The
arrow is placed below the symbol(s).
A sign which is more than 50 years old and is
recognised as being a feature in its own right. Such
Detailed Sign
a sign must be identified in the conservancy’s
Most signs can be read at a glance, without stop-
historic resources strategy or in a specific site
ping. Detailed signs require the visitor to stop and
conservation plan.
study the information.  They contain comprehen-
Information Sign
sive text and/or graphics of a size designed to be
read at close range.  The content of detailed signs
Conveys information pertaining to the use, land
strongly influences the layout but the manual
status, feature or facility.
standards should be followed for colour scheme
(allowing for additional colours in graphics),
corporate signature, typefaces and the yellow band.
The illustrations of the orientation sign (page 4.2)
Lake Alexandrina
and campsite notice (below right) are examples of
detailed signs.
Wildlife Refuge
Directional Sign
Indicates direction and/or time to a destination.
Holdsworth Lookout
1 hr
Donnelly Flat
30 min
Donnelly Flat via Loop Walk
45 min
Rimutaka Forest Park
Gentle Annie Track
Haere mai ki te ngahere o Rimutaka. Welcome to Rimutaka Forest Park.
Entrance gates are locked at dusk, reopen at 8 am
To Papatahi
W
Crossing
The Rimutaka Range is characterised by very steep-sided valleys with widespread erosion. The low altitude
haka
of the range and proximity to the coast gives a mild climate with moderate rainfall. The area experiences
Please keep dogs
A permit is
n
T
u
u
i
r

e
Tra
frequent gale-force winds, however, and conditions can become very cold, so visitors should always be
controlled. Dogs
required to hunt in
re
c
Shamrock Hut
  S
k
trea
Rocky Lookout
m
1 hr
prepared with warm, waterproof clothing.
may not enter the
the park. Shooting
People have travelled over the range since the original maori inhabitants who hunted and sought refuge
Orongorongo
is not permitted in
there during inter-tribal wars. Today the extensive network of tracks provides for visitors of all ages and
research area.
Catchpool Valley
levels of fitness.
M
or within 200 m of
For the safety of
a
Mountain House
Nau mai ki te wao nui a Tane. Manaaki mai, tiaki mai. Tane's great forest welcomes those who care for it.
M
2 /
1
the Orongorongo
t
visitors, mountain
t h
2 hr
River. Hunting of
t
bikes may not be
any type is not
Bush Cabins for Hire
used on walking
allowed in the
tracks.
Haurangi Hut
Powell Hut
4 hr
Walking Tracks
Bush cabins in the Orongorongo Valley are
Orongorongo
available for hire through the visitor centre. As
Vehicle access to
research area.
M
G
well as the cost of hire, a refundable deposit is
Nga Taonga Trail (easy, 30 min)
the Orongorongo
Please remove your
c
r
K
required for keys to the cabins.
a
Goat
Buy a copy of
Valley is by permit
Nga Taonga o te Ngahere: Treas-
litter when you
e
Totara Flats Hut
c
4 hr
only.
r
ures of the Forest from the visitor centre to
The old public shelter (Raukawa Lodge) has
leave. Recycle
e
r
s
o
follow the numbered trail beginning in the
been converted into an accommodation hut and
Fires may not be lit
aluminium, glass,
w
clearing beside the Graces Stream footbridge.
is locked.
in Catchpool Valley.
paper, and plastic.
M
c
Jans Hut
Mt Holdsworth
5 hr
Capacity
Catchpool Loop Track
C
K
Oaks Hut
l
(easy, 45 min return)
Haurangi Hut
8
a
y R
e
B
idg
r
row
This walk crosses a footbridge over the
n
e
s
Jans Hut
8
ro
Raukawa
Catchpool Stream, from a signposted point 15
w
Lodge
Oaks Hut
8
minutes along the Orongorongo Track.
ck
Tra
Raukawa Lodge
14
If you require further

Atiwhakatu Track
Five Mile Loop Track (easy, 2 hr return)
Protect plants and animals.
information or wish to report
o
g
n
G
Shamrock Hut
8
ro
r
This trip starts from the car park at the top of the
any matter, please contact the
o
e
Remove rubbish.
g
e
n
ns
ro
O
Stre
Catchpool Valley. Cross the footbridge to the
visitor centre.
O
ro
am
Bury toilet waste.
n
ck
g
left of the car park. The track is well signposted.
Safety
Telephone 0-4-564 8551
o
ra
ro
Keep streams and lakes clean.
T
n
e
g
o
Butcher Track (moderate-difficult, 2 hr)
or

Orongorongo
The weather in the Rimutaka Forest Park can
ile
idg
Take care with fires.
l
Research Area
Butcher track begins about 10 minutes along the
Department of Conservation
NO HUNTING
Five M
Loop
d
Atiwhakatu Hut
change quickly.
3 hr
R
attle R
Orongorongo Track. A stiff climb brings mag-
Camp carefully.
Rimutaka Forest Park
i
C
v
e
id
r
• Carry food, drink, and warm waterproof cloth-
Private Bag 43902
B
nificent views of Wellington Harbour.
Keep to the track.
M
ut
ing, even on short walks.
Wainuiomata
Wainuiomata
c
Orongorongo Track (easy, 4 hr return)
Consider others.
h
After hours emergencies
Wootton  Stream
Jumbo Hut
Nga Taonga
5 hr
• Wear stout shoes or walking boots on tramp-
One of the most popular walks in New Zealand,
Respect our cultural heritage.
telephone 0-4-471 1592
Trail
Catchpool
Loop
ing tracks.
the track passes through different types of bush,
Enjoy your visit.
Other enquiries to:
leading to the Orongorongo Valley.
• Overnight parties should always include expe-
Visitor
Toitu te whenua
Department of Conservation
Centre
l
You Are
To Mt McKerrow via Clay Ridge
rienced trampers.
o
(Leave the land undisturbed).
Wellington Conservancy
o
Here
(moderate, 3 hr)
PO Box 5086
• Use a Rimutaka/Haurangi Forest Park map
p
Follow either Middle Ridge or the Old Five Mile
Wellington
(NZMS 274-04) or appropriate NZMS 260
to the beginning of Clay Ridge. Return via
Telephone 0-4-472 5821
topographical maps.
Orongorongo Track: 3 hr.
Catch
An emergency phone is
0   1   2   3 k m
Times are estimated for an average family group.
• Do not carry loaded firearms in Catchpool
available outside the
Coast
Valley.
visitor centre.
September 1994
4.1

Interpretation Sign
Walkway Information and Orientation Signs
A sign which relates a story or a message in a
These signs follow the same design standards as
written, visual or interactive way in order to
Departmental signs except the New Zealand
improve the reader’s understanding and apprecia-
Walkways logo replaces the corporate signature
tion of the topic. Specifications for interpretation
which is moved to the bottom left of the sign.
signs are not presented in this manual but many
Warning Sign
features of the visual image are appropriate for
A sign to warn of a particular hazard and describe
interpretation signs and should be incorporated
the appropriate action.
wherever possible.
Marine Reserve Boundary Marker
Slippery Rocks
A large triangular sign conforming to specifications
Remain behind safety fence
determined by the Ministry of Transport (see
appendix).
Orientation Sign
Common stock
An information sign which includes detailed
Where the same sign is required in a number of
information and/or any pictorial content other than
places costs may be reduced through both econo-
symbols alone (such as a map).  These signs may
mies in large scale production and choice of the
also include some interpretation of an area or a
manufacturing method. Screen printing and heat
feature.
stamping are especially suited to mass production
signs.
Rimutaka Forest Park
Suggestions for new common stock signs are
to be made to the Visitor Services Division, Head
Haere mai ki te ngahere o Rimutaka. Welcome to Rimutaka Forest Park. Entrance gates are locked at dusk, reopen at 8 am
To Papatahi
W
Crossing
The Rimutaka Range is characterised by very steep-sided valleys with widespread erosion. The low altitude
haka
of the range and proximity to the coast gives a mild climate with moderate rainfall. The area experiences
Please keep dogs
A permit is
n
T
u
u
i
r

e
T
r
ra
frequent gale-force winds, however, and conditions can become very cold, so visitors should always be
controlled. Dogs
required to hunt in
e
c
Shamrock Hut
  S
k
tre
prepared with warm, waterproof clothing.
may not enter the
the park. Shooting
am
People have travelled over the range since the original maori inhabitants who hunted and sought refuge
Orongorongo
is not permitted in
there during inter-tribal wars. Today the extensive network of tracks provides for visitors of all ages and
research area.
Catchpool Valley
Office.
levels of fitness.
M
or within 200 m of
a
Nau mai ki te wao nui a Tane. Manaaki mai, tiaki mai. Tane's great forest welcomes those who care for it.
For the safety of
the Orongorongo
M
t
visitors, mountain
t h
River. Hunting of
t
bikes may not be
any type is not
Bush Cabins for Hire
used on walking
allowed in the
Haurangi Hut
Walking Tracks
tracks.
Bush cabins in the Orongorongo Valley are
Orongorongo
available for hire through the visitor centre. As
Vehicle access to
research area.
M
G
well as the cost of hire, a refundable deposit is
Nga Taonga Trail (easy, 30 min)
the Orongorongo
Please remove your
c
r
K
Examples of common stock signs available are
required for keys to the cabins.
a
Goat
Buy a copy of
Valley is by permit
Nga Taonga o te Ngahere: Treas-
litter when you
e
only.
c
r
ures of the Forest from the visitor centre to
The old public shelter (Raukawa Lodge) has
leave. Recycle
e
r
s
o
follow the numbered trail beginning in the
been converted into an accommodation hut and
Fires may not be lit
aluminium, glass,
w
clearing beside the Graces Stream footbridge.
is locked.
in Catchpool Valley.
paper, and plastic.
M
Jans Hut
Capacity
c
Catchpool Loop Track
C
K
Oaks Hut
l
(easy, 45 min return)
Haurangi Hut
8
a
y
shown in the appendix.
R
e
B
idg
r
row
This walk crosses a footbridge over the
n
Jans Hut
8
e
ro
s
Raukawa
Catchpool Stream, from a signposted point 15
w
Lodge
Oaks Hut
8
minutes along the Orongorongo Track.
ck
Tra
Raukawa Lodge
14
If you require further

Five Mile Loop Track (easy, 2 hr return)
Protect plants and animals.
information or wish to report
o
g
n
G
Shamrock Hut
8
ro
r
This trip starts from the car park at the top of the
any matter, please contact the
o
e
Remove rubbish.
g
e
n
ns
ro
O
St
Catchpool Valley. Cross the footbridge to the
visitor centre.
O
r
r
o
eam
Bury toilet waste.
n
k
g
left of the car park. The track is well signposted.
Safety
Telephone 0-4-564 8551
o
rac
ro
T
Keep streams and lakes clean.
n
e
g
o
Butcher Track (moderate-difficult, 2 hr)
or

Orongorongo
The weather in the Rimutaka Forest Park can
Take care with fires.
Research Area
e Mile
l
Butcher track begins about 10 minutes along the
Department of Conservation
NO HUNTING
change quickly.
FivLoop
d
R
Orongorongo Track. A stiff climb brings mag-
Camp carefully.
Rimutaka Forest Park
i
Cattle Ridg
v
e
id
r
• Carry food, drink, and warm waterproof cloth-
Private Bag 43902
B
nificent views of Wellington Harbour.
Keep to the track.
M
ut
ing, even on short walks.
Wainuiomata
Wainuiomata
c
Orongorongo Track (easy, 4 hr return)
Consider others.
h
After hours emergencies
• Wear stout shoes or walking boots on tramp-
Wootton  Stream
One of the most popular walks in New Zealand,
Nga Taonga
Respect our cultural heritage.
telephone 0-4-471 1592
Trail
Catchpool
Loop
ing tracks.
the track passes through different types of bush,
Enjoy your visit.
Other enquiries to:
leading to the Orongorongo Valley.
• Overnight parties should always include expe-
Visitor
Toitu te whenua
Department of Conservation
Centre
l
You Are
To Mt McKerrow via Clay Ridge
rienced trampers.
o
(Leave the land undisturbed).
Wellington Conservancy
o
Here
(moderate, 3 hr)
PO Box 5086
• Use a Rimutaka/Haurangi Forest Park map
p
Follow either Middle Ridge or the Old Five Mile
Wellington
(NZMS 274-04) or appropriate NZMS 260
to the beginning of Clay Ridge. Return via
Telephone 0-4-472 5821
topographical maps.
Orongorongo Track: 3 hr.
Catch
An emergency phone is
0   1   2   3 k m
Times are estimated for an average family group.
• Do not carry loaded firearms in Catchpool
available outside the
Coast
Valley.
visitor centre.
Regulatory Notice
The corporate signature may be placed at the
bottom left of the notice.
Temporary Sign
A sign which is required for a period generally not
exceeding 6 months and is therefore designed with
short-term life in mind.
4.2
September 1994

5. Planning and Ordering Signs
Sign Plan
Signs do not require a building consent unless
A sign plan provides a framework for establishing
they exceed 7 metres in height. (Refer to the third
an effective sign programme, including costing,
schedule, item (b) of the Building Act 1991.)
approvals, construction, installation and inventory.
Siting Plan
A sign plan should be completed in conjunction
A detailed map should show boundaries, facilities,
with, and at the same time as, other facility and
services and features with both existing and pro-
landscape planning in the area and should follow a
posed signs. If the area is not well-known the siting
schedule of sign needs. In many cases careful
plan should contain a locality diagram.
design of facilities will reduce or eliminate the need
for signs.
Ordering Signs
The sign site should be visited at least once
Two major stages are required to prepare an order
during the planning phase. The sign plan consists
for a sign:
of two parts, the siting plan and the sign schedule.
•
requisition for the sign completed by the field
Approvals
staff;
•
sign visuals prepared as scale computer-drawn
The placement of signs may be controlled by the
images.
Resource Management Act 1991 and the local
district plan.
The requisition, prepared by the person
requesting the sign, contains:
District plans are currently being rewritten and
conservancies should be active in ensuring that
•
purpose of the sign;
unreasonable controls are not placed upon the
•
sketch of the sign complete with text and
proper placement of signs on conservation land.
symbols;
All signs require a land use consent under the
•
list and diagram of those symbols that require a
section 9(1) of the Resource Management Act
prohibition slash;
unless section 4 applies. Under section 4 land use
•
where the sign is double-sided or made up of
consents are not required if:
several parts, a sketch diagram indicating how
•
the land on which the sign is to be placed is
the sign is to be produced;
managed by Department of Conservation; and
•
speed that the person reading the sign will be
•
the placement of signs on such land is consist-
travelling, e.g., walking, open road;
ent with a conservation management strategy
•
maximum distance the sign will be read from;
or conservation management plan; and
•
date requested;
•
the placement of signs on such land does not
•
name of the person who requested the sign;
have a significant adverse effect beyond the
•
address for delivery;
boundary of the area.
•
information on post length requirements.
For exact wording refer to the Resource
Where the sign is on sloping ground or in a
Management Act 1991. (Section 4 of the Resource
high wind area details on additional post
Management Act was amended in 1993.)
lengths required will be needed.
Even if your sign does not meet the above
criteria a land use consent will not be required if
the sign meets the criteria and performance stand-
ards set out in the district plan allowing certain
signs as permitted activities.
September 1994
5.1

The sign visuals prepared from the requisition
contain:
•
scale drawing of the sign complete with text
and symbols;
•
where the sign is double-sided or made up of
several parts, a diagram indicating how the
sign is to be produced;
•
normal speed at which the sign will be read;
•
maximum distance from which the sign must
be readable;
•
date requested;
•
date designed;
•
name of the person who requested the sign;
•
name of the person who designed the sign.
Once the final sign schedule has been checked
and approved by the sign requester, post type, size
and length details can be attached and the schedule
sent to the sign manufacturer for quotation and
delivery date.
Each regional conservator will nominate a
person with responsibility for implementing the
sign system in each conservancy.
This person will also have responsibility for
auditing compliance with this manual and ensuring
that professional sign construction standards are
achieved.
Signs will be designed on, or have their design
transferred to, computer using an approved soft-
ware package such as CorelDRAW®. Sign manufac-
turers have different software format requirements.
Check with the manufacturer before designs are
supplied on disk.
Any signs proposed as common stock signs or
departures from this manual will be reviewed and,
where appropriate, approved by the signs coordina-
tor in Visitor Services Division of Head Office.
5.2
September 1994

Sign Requisition
Conservancy/Field Centre

Date
Contact person
Phone

Fax
Delivery address
Name/Purpose of sign

Inventory No.
(e.g., park entrance)
Location
Location map
Site diagram
(Enough detail to find the site)
(features that may influence size, layout, construction )
Sign must be readable from
metres and at
speed
Sketch of sign (ensure text is legible, identify and show placement of logos, symbols, arrows, times etc.)
Single/Double sided

Post length
Other information
September 1994
5.3

6. Siting and Installation
Siting
•
Vegetation
The following factors should be considered when
Avoid sites where vegetation will obscure
designing signs.  They should be reconsidered
signs. Remove plants that will require regular
before sign installation.
trimming. Do not attach signs to trees.
•
Integration with other facilities
Roadside Signs
Build signs into other facilities if possible.
Transit New Zealand
•
Cultural and historic sites
Transit NZ are responsible for signs directing
Do not compromise the integrity of historic
motorists from State Highways to areas managed by
and cultural sites or features. Never apply
the department.  The department is responsible for
signs to historic buildings, monuments or
signs identifying areas it manages. Where these are
relics. Consult with tangata whenua over
to be installed along State Highways, Transit NZ
design and installation of signs at wahi tapu.
must be consulted.
•
Visual impact
Roadside sign visibility: minimum safe distance
Signs need to be easily noticed. Undue visual
Position signs so that motorists can safely read the
impact can be reduced where the sign has a
information before passing.
backdrop of vegetation or land-form.  Avoid
MINIMUM SIGHT DISTANCE (m)
silhouetting a sign against the sky and consider
Traffic Local
Collector/
what single-sided signs look like from behind.
speed (km/h)
road
Arterial route
•
Context
40 30
70
Relate signs to their message by siting them
50 40
90
close to site of interest.
60 55
115
•
Circulation pattern
70 85
140
Observe the way visitors move around the site
80
105 175
and where they slow down and stop.  Avoid
90
130 210
placing signs where they will be obscured by
100 160
250
visitors or their vehicles.
110 190
290
•
Line of vision
120 230
330
Site signs at 90 degrees to the likely line of
Distance from sign to turn-off
sight. Signs should generally be sited on the
Position signs so that sufficient distance is available
left side of roads.
for motorists to react safely after reading them.
•
Reading and reaction time
Traffic
Distance (m)
Ensure visitors have sufficient time to notice
speed (km/h)
from sign to turn-off
and read the sign before it passes from their
10 30
field of vision.  Also ensure they have time to
20 50
react to the message wherever this is required.
60
100
The tables in the “Roadside Signs” section are
80
150
guides to siting signs for motorists.
100>
200–400
•
Safety
Where the speed limit is 100 km/h try to standard-
Do not site signs where they obscure a hazard,
ise siting at 400 m before visitors need to turn or
distract visitors from a hazard or become a
stop and specify the 400 m warning on the sign. In
hazard themselves. Install shear posts as
no case should signs be placed more than 1 km in
appropriate on roadside signs.
advance of the decision point.
September 1994
6.1

Minimum distances between roadside signs
•
ensure post length allows for sloping ground;
Position signs to avoid conflict with other signs in
•
allow for environmental changes e.g., snow
the vicinity, to maximise effectiveness of the
coverage, sand movement.
message and to avoid adverse effects on traffic
Level
safety.
Ensure the sign is straight and level and remains so.
Distance (m)
Observe the following:
Traffic
Recommended Desirable
speed (km/h)
minimum spacing
spacing
• always use spirit level;
60 50
80
•
brace the sign while concrete sets. Always
70 55
100 allow at least seven days before removing
80 60
150 bracing. Ensure bracing does not damage the
95 70
200 sign surface;
115 80
250
•
install permanent bracing on large signs in
Installation
high wind areas if required;
Walk or drive the route before and after installation
•
ensure adequate post length and adequate
to ensure placement is correct.
concrete anchors are used.
Height Above Ground
Securing the Sign
Sign height above ground is to be measured from
Observe the following:
the center of the bottom of the sign board to
•
posts should be a minimum of 400 mm in the
ground level. Observe the following:
ground;
•
place signs as low to the ground as practical;
• attach feet to all signs;
•
minimum height above ground at centre of
•
set signs prone to vandalism into concrete;
sign is 200 mm;
•
clean up the site before leaving.
•
maximum height above ground at centre of
Safety
sign is 500 mm except where the sign board
would be obscured by objects such as parked
When installing road signs ensure that you have
cars or the road camber. In these cases sign
adequate safety equipment and be sure to advise
height should be the minimum for the sign to
the appropriate authorities.
be seen over the top of the obstacle;
Check for the presence of buried gas, power,
telecommunications or other reticulated services
before digging.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you
do not create a road hazard and that adequate
200mm min 500mm max
200mm min 500mm max
warning signs are displayed.
•
set finger signs 500–1200 mm above ground;
For roadside sign installation it is recom-
• firmly
install Flexopost boundary markers
mended that temporary warning signs are used.
vertically with the top 900 mm above ground
Staff should wear safety jerkins or safety vests.
level. The minimum embedding length shall
For correct use of road warning signs and
be 300 mm for posts with an approved retain-
general road construction safety refer to the Transit
ing clip (foot) and 400 mm for posts without
New Zealand booklet “Working on the Roads”.
an approved retaining clip;
6.2
September 1994

7. Inventory
Records
A printed record of all sign plans is to be kept in
both conservancy and field centre offices. This will
enable signs to be rapidly replaced should they be
damaged or removed. Observe the following:
• a
hard copy of each sign design is to be stored
in the conservancy or field centre. These may
be filed using the existing codafile system. It is
recommended that separate sign files are used
for each track or facility area;
•
each sign is to be assigned a unique number
which is to be noted on the inventory record.
The number is to be prefixed with the con-
servancy identity number;
•
date of installation, maintenance and removal
is to be recorded for each sign.
September 1994
7.1

8. Inspection and Maintenance
Inspection
Each field centre is to develop a systematic inspec-
tion system so that damaged signs are promptly
maintained or replaced and redundant signs re-
moved. This will also provide information required
for budgeting maintenance and replacement.
The minimum interval for inspection and
assessment is one year. Regular cleaning and repair
of signs will extend their service life. If signs are
damaged through accident or vandalism they
should be replaced immediately.
Maintenance inspections are to ensure that:
• visual obstructions (normally vegetation) are
removed;
•
sign material is sound and in good condition;
•
posts are firmly embedded and signs remain
fixed to the posts;
•
posts are maintained in a vertical position.
Posts that are 10° or greater off vertical shall be
straightened;
•
the graphics are in sound condition;
•
the message remains readable;
•
the message is both accurate and relevant. Has
the situation changed? Is the sign still re-
quired?
•
all damage to posts or sign board is repaired
and painted to professional standards or
replacements are made;
•
when required, all signs, posts and boundary
markers are cleaned to remove road grime and
other dirt to within 200 mm of ground level.
September 1994
8.1

9. Replacement & Maintenance of Signs Installed before 1 January 1994
Implementation
•
if the logo is a plastic insert and is in good
In order to implement a consistent visual image, all
repair then its use may be continued.
previous sign systems will incorporate certain
The yellow identity band and the new corpo-
elements of the new sign system until a replace-
rate signature is not to be used on existing signs.
ment sign is required.
Where these elements are required a new sign
While it is recognised that upgrading one sign
should be produced.
within a larger group of signs may create a certain
untidiness, the overall importance of proceeding
towards national consistency as soon as possible
means that this situation is unavoidable.
The following procedures are to be applied
when maintaining or repairing existing signs.
Existing Signs that are Beyond Repair
All signs that are beyond repair or display incorrect
information are to be replaced with signs that
conform to the requirements of this manual. No
other sign system or portion of another sign system
(see introduction for exceptions) is to be used for
outdoor sign requirements from.
Existing Signs that are in Good Repair
All existing signs that are in good repair are to be
upgraded with the following elements of the new
visual image as soon as possible:
•
all sign boards and posts are to be painted dark
green (refer to colour swatches). This includes
sign boards that were previously stained or
oiled;
•
all lettering on sign boards is to be painted
yellow (refer to colour swatches).
Where a Department logo appears on an
existing sign the following will apply:
•
if the central elements of the logo (Rangi and
Papa) are routered, paint them the standard
colours: process blue for Rangi, PMS 370 green
for Papa;
•
if the shield surrounding the central elements
is routered, paint it white and the central
elements dark green (refer to colour
swatches);
September 1994
9.1

References
GP Publications Ltd. 1993: The New Zealand Style
Book. Wellington
Hillary Commission for Recreation and Sport and
Department of Conservation. 1992: A Track
Classification for Walkways and other Foot
Tracks in New Zealand. Wellington.
Land Transport Safety Authority; Transit New
Zealand. 1993: Advertising Signs and Road
Safety Design and Location Guidelines.
Wellington.
Standards Association of New Zealand. 1992:
Outdoor Recreation Symbols NZS 8603.
Wellington.
Transit New Zealand/Ministry of Transport. Edition
3. 1992: The Manual of Traffic Signs and
Markings. Wellington.
Transit New Zealand Edition 2. 1991: Working on
the Roads. Wellington.
September 1994
R.1

Document Outline

Contents