Yesterday, contractor Fulton Hogan hoisted a large, reinforced concrete pillar into place that will form the core of the monument, supporting the 2.74m-tall statue of Trooper David Mickle Jack.
Once that is in position, concrete will be poured to form the foundation, and Dooley's Masonry will install the statues of the lion and soldier, plaques carrying the names of fallen soldiers, and stone and marble trim.
That is due to start early next week, depending on the weather.
Kerry Dooley, of Dooley's, said all the pieces had been cleaned, restored and were ready to go back on the monument.
Fulton Hogan Oamaru manager Kevin Milligan said the project would be completed by Christmas.
The monument, unveiled in February, 1905, is being shifted about 40m south and turned 180 degrees to face north, to make way for a major road safety project by the New Zealand Transport Authority on State Highway 1 through central Oamaru.
Shifting the monument will cost about $685,000.
