If you are in New Zealand and use maps or GPS be aware that a new coordinate system may impact (slightly) where you are at!
New Zealand has moved to using a new, official topographical map series, Topo50. This is one of the most significant changes to New Zealand’s authoritative topographical maps since the 1930s.
The Topo50 map series has been developed to be compatible with international mapping systems and modern navigational technologies such as GPS. As a result, the Topo50 maps use different coordinates (latitudes and longitudes) of points to previous official maps. The difference is equivalent to an approximate 200 metre change in position. The maps are produced at 1:50,000 scale and are designed to help you navigate through remote areas.
On this site, you can find out why the change has been made, and what it means to you.
Compatibility with GPS units (from Topo50 - Why the change)
If you have a GPS system, you can update it simply by setting your GPS receiver to NZGD2000. If your GPS doesn't support that system, you can use the default datum setting of World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84). WGS84 is practically the same as NZGD2000 and means latitudes and longitudes from your GPS receiver will be compatible with those on the Topo50 maps.
