A cross was first erected on top of the Clock Tower in Palmerston North in December 1960. While intended to be temporary it became a permanent fixture. In 1981 it was replaced with a new more substantial cross, 2.7 metres by 2 metres, paid for by local churches and individuals. The Council paid for its erection and maintenance. The new cross was put in place by crane and was wired by electricians Brian Corsbie, Wayne Bower and David Foster, for lighting from dusk until dawn. A remodelling of the Clock Tower in 2007 saw it replaced by a 'lantern' cross.