Business / Safety / Near our network / Reference maps

REFERENCE MAPS

Request underground plans via beforeudig.co.nz at least two working days before you begin work.

map
Get reference maps

We will email you free reference maps, indicating the approximate location of Vector’s underground cables and pipes. Reference maps are only valid for 28 days from date of issue.

You must contact us on 0508 VECTOR (0508 832 867) if any subtrans cables or strategic gas pipes are shown on the maps you have requested. This is to determine whether on-site advice, a standover or a Close Approach Consent are required and if so, to arrange it.
mark out
Mark out the service locations

Use the reference maps as a guide for locating and marking out all cables and pipes within your worksite. We remind you of your responsibilities under the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015, whereby you must establish the location of underground services before commencing excavation. Refer to WorkSafe’s excavation guide.

You can use a professional locator

There are a number of companies that provide underground asset location services:

- Northpower 09 978 2940 or email mark-outs@northpower.com
- Te Aratika Drilling Ltd 09 420 4726
- Underground Service Locators 0800 425 622

Other service providers can be found in the yellow pages or online by typing the search string ‘underground service locators'.

Please note: Vector takes no responsibility or liability for the work carried out by these companies.
dig
Hand dig to expose cables and pipes

Hand digging is less likely to cause serious damage to cables and pipes. Dig with caution for your own safety and remember to watch out for services coming off a main, pipeline or cable. Use an insulated shovel.

Any damage to a cable or pipe should be reported to Vector immediately, 0508 VECTOR (0508 832 867).

Cable and pipe depths

Our cables and pipes are laid at different depths in the ground; varying from 400mm to over 1200mm. Alterations to the ground cover may reduce or increase the depths. We cannot guarantee the depth of any cable, and you shouldn’t rely on finding buried marker tape when you dig as this may have shifted over time. Also, depending on the age of the asset, tape may never have been laid (note warning tape is not a legal requirement).
 
IF AN INCIDENT OCCURS, FOLLOW THESE EMERGENCY GUIDELINES.

We have safety guides you can download to help you and your crews work safely: