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Mapping system enters next stage of evolution

Published 16 October 2012

Discovering recreational opportunities in the outdoors has today become even easier thanks to the introduction of major enhancements to the Walking Access Mapping System. 

The mapping system has been developed by the New Zealand Walking Access Commission to display publicly accessible land across the country. It uses geographic information system (GIS) technology to display topographical maps and aerial photography of most of the country and includes an enquiry function that enables users to submit questions about access and access disputes direct to the Commission.

Commission Chief Executive Mark Neeson said the enhancements leaving testing today included an improved user interface and mobile functionality that allows 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. That information could include walking, horse riding and cycling tracks, fishing access points, surf beach access points, camp sites, or other outdoor points of interest. This is a creative way to mix and match public and private information on a nationwide basis.  

“These enhancements will vastly improve the mapping system as a tool for people planning trips into the outdoors,â€