Navigating with maps
Maps and supporting navigation tools are essential for walking, tramping and hunting in New Zealand.
Whatever type of map and navigation tools you take, you need to know how to use them. Learn navigation skills on the NZ Mountain Safety Council website
DOC maps
Use DOC’s online map, Discover the Outdoors, to find places managed by DOC where you can walk, tramp, camp, hunt and mountain bike.
This map is embedded throughout the recreation pages of our website.
Use the map layers to see:
- walking, tramping and mountain biking tracks
- huts, campsites and other types of accommodation
- hunting areas
- public conservation land
- freedom camping restrictions
- drone permit zones
- DOC Visitor Centres
- places to go
You can change the map to satellite or topographic, and view it in either 2D or 3D.
To print a section of the map, open it in a new window and select ‘print map’.
Some DOC tracks have elevation profiles displayed under the map. You can trace the elevation profile with your mouse to see the position on the map.
For other DOC maps and geospatial data, see maps and data.
New Zealand topographic maps
Carry and use a detailed topographic map on all outdoor trips, including day walks, overnight and multi-day tramps, and hunting trips.
Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) produces 1:50,000 scale topographic maps for the whole of New Zealand, known as Topo50 maps. These are available for download from the LINZ website, and printed maps are available to purchase from DOC Visitor Centres and other retailers.
Map apps
Not all map apps are suitable for hiking, tramping or hunting in New Zealand.
Choose a reliable option that:
- works offline
- shows all New Zealand backcountry areas
- includes a topographic map view
- shows tracks, terrain and other important features clearly
Many places in New Zealand do not have cell phone or internet reception. We recommend downloading maps and checking they work offline before your trip.
If you’re relying on your phone for navigation, make sure you will have enough battery life and carry a paper backup in case your phone gets damaged or runs out of charge.
Reduce your risk of getting lost
Before you go on your trip, prepare for emergencies by:
- Learning navigation and survival skills.
- Researching your route and planning your trip thoroughly.
- Taking the right gear, including a distress beacon, emergency shelter, warm and waterproof clothing, survival kit, first aid kit, navigation tools, a torch and spare batteries, and spare food.
- Sharing your plans with a trusted person before you leave. Give them plenty of detail and ask them to call 111 if you don’t return as planned. Learn more about leaving trip intentions on the Mountain Safety Council website
If you get lost
Don’t keep going into unfamiliar terrain hoping to find your way.
- Stop and assess the situation. Unless you are certain of the way out, stay where you are.
- Make yourself and your group safe and comfortable – get warm, eat and drink, make a shelter, use first aid if needed.
- Call for help and make yourself visible.
Learn more about what to do if you get lost on the Mountain Safety Council website