Mapping system enhancements enter testing

Major enhancements to New Zealand's Walking Access Mapping System entered public testing today (30 August 2012).

The enhancements include an improved user interface and mobile functionality that will allow users to access the system on smartphones and tablet computers.

A new component has also been added to enable third party organisations to display their own access-related information to the public, alongside access information presented by the New Zealand Walking Access Commission. This information could include walking, horse riding and cycling tracks, fishing access points, surf beach access points, camp sites, or other outdoor points of interest.

Partner organisations that have so far expressed an interest in uploading their own information to the mapping system include Fish & Game Wellington, Department of Conservation, Wellington City Council, Surf Lifesaving New Zealand and Venture Southland. The system displays locations of outdoor points of interest identified by partner organisations and provides links back to their websites for users who want to find out more.

Commission Chief Executive Mark Neeson said the changes, now live at www.wams.org.nz, would remain in testing for approximately six weeks to allow user feedback to be gathered and any issues resolved.

“These enhancements will vastly improve the mapping system as a tool for people planning trips into the outdoors. I'd encourage anybody that experiences a glitch or issue during the testing period to let us know so we can take steps to correct the problem as soon as possible.â€