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Place-name location uncertainty

A historical text may establish a name strongly while locating it only approximately.

Use geometry that matches the evidence:

  • point — when a source/feature position is reasonably established
  • line — river, ridge, route or coast feature
  • polygon — named area/feature extent where supported
  • generalised area — documentary location only narrows the search zone
  • no geometry yet — valid name record awaiting location research

Store the method​

Useful fields:

location_status
location_method
source_geometry
accuracy_or_scale_note
review_notes

Examples of location_method:

  • Gazetteer Name ID
  • surveyed plan
  • georeferenced historical map
  • documentary description
  • candidate fuzzy name match

Don't hide uncertainty in symbol size​

A big point symbol can look approximate but still stores one exact coordinate. Keep the uncertainty in attributes/metadata and use a derived generalised geometry for maps where appropriate.

See Investigating a historic kāinga.

Last reviewed: 26 August 2026

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