Best Maps for New Zealand

by Christopher O'Keeffe July 03, 2026

New Zealand is not a destination where one map should be expected to do everything. A complete mapping kit may combine a national touring map, a detailed road atlas, separate North and South Island maps, city plans, topographic sheets and a large wall map for planning at home.

New Zealand—Aotearoa—is exceptionally well suited to independent travel.

The country has a clear highway network, excellent visitor infrastructure and a remarkable concentration of landscapes within a relatively compact area. Yet its physical geography can make journeys more complex than they first appear.

Travellers encounter:

• volcanic plateaus

• mountain passes

• winding coastal highways

• alpine valleys

• fjords

• glaciers

• geothermal regions

• isolated beaches

• remote national parks

• major ferry crossings

• gravel and unsealed roads

• rapidly changing weather

• long distances between some services

For many visitors, the journey begins in Auckland and continues through Rotorua, Taupō and Wellington before crossing Cook Strait to the South Island.

But New Zealand offers far more than one north–south itinerary.

A complete journey might also include:

• the Bay of Islands

• Cape Reinga

• the Coromandel Peninsula

• Hobbiton

• Waitomo

• Tongariro National Park

• Taranaki

• Hawke’s Bay

• the Wairarapa

• Marlborough Sounds

• Nelson and Tasman

• Kaikōura

• Christchurch

• Arthur’s Pass

• the West Coast

• Franz Josef and Fox glaciers

• Aoraki/Mount Cook

• Wānaka

• Queenstown

• Milford Sound

• Fiordland

• Dunedin

• the Catlins

• Stewart Island/Rakiura

The best New Zealand map kit therefore combines several levels of detail:

1. a national map for understanding both main islands;

2. a detailed touring atlas for road-trip planning;

3. a dedicated North or South Island map;

4. city maps for Auckland, Wellington or Christchurch;

5. topographic maps for tramping, fieldwork or remote travel;

6. a wall map for planning, education or display;

7. offline digital navigation and current road, ferry and weather information.

Explore the complete Mapworld New Zealand maps, guides and road atlases collection.

For larger maps suited to classrooms, businesses, home offices and travel-planning rooms, browse the Mapworld Australia, Asia and New Zealand wall-map collection and the dedicated New Zealand wall-map collection. Mapworld’s current New Zealand range includes national touring maps, atlases, island maps, city plans, topographic mapping and modern and historical wall maps. (Mapworld)

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The Best New Zealand Maps: Quick Recommendations

Purpose	Best place to begin
Best overall New Zealand atlas	Hema New Zealand Touring Atlas
Best single folded touring map	Hema New Zealand/Aotearoa Touring Map
Best New Zealand-made national map	New Zealand Kiwimaps Folded Map
Best waterproof national map	National Geographic New Zealand Adventure Map
Best compact laminated map	New Zealand Borch Folded Laminated Map
Best map for the North Island	Hema North Island Map
Best locally produced North Island map	Kiwimaps North Island Map
Best map for the South Island	Hema South Island Map
Best locally produced South Island map	Kiwimaps South Island Map
Best map for Auckland	Auckland Complete Kiwimaps Map
Best map for Wellington and surrounding regions	Wellington Complete Kiwimaps Map
Best map for Christchurch and day trips	Christchurch Visitor Kiwimaps Map
Best for tramping and detailed terrain	New Zealand Topo50 maps
Best for broad regional topographic planning	New Zealand 1:250,000 maps
Best standard wall map	New Zealand National Geographic Classic Wall Map
Best decorative modern wall map	New Zealand Executive National Geographic Map
Best large planning map	New Zealand National Geographic Supermap
Best large physical and political map	New Zealand Wall Map 914 × 1219 mm
Best atlas-style wall map	New Zealand Atlas of the World Wall Map
Best Victorian historical map	John Tallis New Zealand Map from 1851
Best late-19th-century map	J. Bartholomew New Zealand Map from 1874
Best historic Auckland map	Auckland Historic Wall Map 1959
Best historic North Island map	North Island Historic Wall Map 1937
Best historic South Island map	South Island Historic Wall Map 1926
Best historic Rotorua map	Rotorua Historic Wall Map 1966
Best travel redundancy	Paper map, offline digital map and current official advice

For most first-time road trips covering both islands, the strongest combination is:

• New Zealand Touring Atlas by Hema

• New Zealand/Aotearoa Folded Touring Map by Hema

• the relevant Hema North Island Map or Hema South Island Map

For outdoor travel, add selected New Zealand Topo50 maps.

For planning at home, add the New Zealand National Geographic Wall Map or the larger New Zealand National Geographic Supermap.

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Why New Zealand Requires More Than a Phone

Digital navigation is extremely useful in New Zealand.

It can provide:

• live GPS positioning

• turn-by-turn road directions

• estimated travel times

• ferry and public-transport information

• walking directions

• accommodation locations

• fuel searches

• saved destinations

• traffic and closure alerts

• downloaded offline maps

But a phone remains dependent on:

• battery power

• functioning hardware

• mobile reception or maps downloaded in advance

• correct route information

• screen visibility

• an application selecting an appropriate road

• current information about weather and closures

A small screen can also make it difficult to understand the wider journey.

A digital route may direct a traveller from Christchurch to Queenstown without clearly showing:

• the relationship between the eastern plains and the Southern Alps

• whether the route passes through Tekapo or the West Coast

• how far Milford Sound lies from Queenstown

• where mountain passes restrict east–west travel

• whether a scenic detour fits naturally into the itinerary

• which settlements provide the last practical fuel or services

• how a ferry crossing connects the two islands

A paper map provides:

• a permanent national or regional overview

• alternative roads

• visible mountain barriers

• ferry routes

• surrounding national parks

• road distances

• scenic touring routes

• a dependable independent reference

• a shared planning surface

The strongest approach is not paper instead of digital.

It is paper and digital together.

Use the paper map to understand the journey.

Use digital navigation for immediate directions, current road conditions, weather warnings and last-minute changes.

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1. New Zealand Touring Atlas by Hema

The Best Overall New Zealand Road Atlas

The New Zealand Touring Atlas by Hema is the most comprehensive single printed touring resource in the Mapworld New Zealand range.

Its spiral-bound format allows the atlas to remain open on:

• a table

• the passenger seat

• a campervan bench

• a motel desk

• the bonnet of a vehicle

The atlas contains approximately 80 pages of detailed touring maps at around 1:345,000, providing substantially more road and regional detail than a national folded sheet.

Coverage extends across both the North and South Islands and includes:

• national highways

• regional roads

• scenic routes

• tourist drives

• sealed and unsealed roads

• terrain contours

• lakes and rivers

• national parks

• recreation areas

• towns and settlements

• visitor facilities

It also contains 28 city and suburban maps, including coverage of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch, Queenstown and Dunedin. (Mapworld)

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Why the Touring Atlas Is So Useful

A folded national map provides the overview.

An atlas breaks the country into a sequence of more detailed, readable pages.

This makes it much easier to plan:

• daily driving stages

• scenic diversions

• fuel stops

• overnight towns

• access to national parks

• alternative routes

• city approaches

• campervan journeys

• trips involving many smaller roads

The spiral binding is particularly practical when moving between regions because the required page can remain exposed without repeatedly unfolding a large sheet.

Best For

Choose the Hema Touring Atlas when:

• you are making an extended New Zealand road trip

• you are travelling by campervan or motorhome

• you are visiting both islands

• you prefer page-by-page road detail

• you want urban and national coverage in one publication

• you are planning several scenic detours

• the journey will last several weeks

• you want the most complete printed touring resource

For a long self-drive holiday, this is the best place to begin.

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2. New Zealand/Aotearoa Folded Touring Map by Hema

The Best Single Folded Touring Map

The New Zealand/Aotearoa Folded Touring Map by Hema is the strongest all-purpose folded map for travellers who want complete national coverage.

It covers the North and South Islands at 1:1,600,000 and unfolds to approximately 700 × 1000 mm.

The main map shows:

• major highways

• secondary roads

• road distances

• ferry routes

• national parks

• mountains

• lakes

• coastal features

• tourist attractions

• important regional destinations

The reverse includes city and suburban maps of:

• Auckland

• Wellington

• Rotorua

• Christchurch

• Dunedin

• Queenstown

This combination makes the map useful for both broad itinerary planning and arrival in the country’s principal urban centres. (Mapworld)

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Why the Hema National Map Works So Well

A complete national sheet makes it easy to compare:

• the North and South Islands

• several possible touring loops

• drive distances between major centres

• east-coast and west-coast alternatives

• the relationship between ferry ports

• city locations and surrounding national parks

• the position of smaller destinations within the journey

It is more convenient than an atlas when a quick overview is required.

Best For

Choose the Hema national map when:

• this is your first New Zealand journey

• you are travelling through both islands

• you want one lightweight folded map

• you are planning the trip before departure

• you want major city insets

• you need a physical backup to GPS

• you are combining driving with ferry travel

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Hema Atlas vs Hema Folded Map

Feature	Hema Touring Atlas	Hema Folded Touring Map
Primary purpose	Detailed road-trip planning	Quick national overview
Format	Spiral-bound atlas	Single folded sheet
Touring-map scale	Approx. 1:345,000	1:1,600,000
Road detail	Greater	General
City maps	28 urban maps	Major city insets
Best for vehicle use	Detailed daily navigation	Quick reference
Best for pre-trip planning	Excellent	Excellent
Portability	Larger book format	Compact folded format

The best approach for a long road trip is to carry both.

Use the atlas for detailed daily planning.

Keep the folded map accessible for national perspective.

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3. New Zealand Kiwimaps Folded Map

The Best New Zealand-Made National Map

The New Zealand Kiwimaps Folded Map is a clear, locally produced national touring map.

 

 

It covers both islands on a single-sided sheet at 1:1,700,000 and measures approximately 615 × 880 mm when unfolded.

It includes:

• national travel routes

• cities and towns

• rivers

• lakes

• islands

• national parks

• mountains

• glaciers

• recreation areas

• major city environs

• a travel-time chart

• a road-distance table

• detailed indexes

The travel-time and distance information is particularly helpful when forming the initial itinerary. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Kiwimaps national map when:

• you want a map researched and produced in New Zealand

• you prefer both islands on one side

• journey-time planning is important

• you need a clear national overview

• you are studying New Zealand geography

• you want an affordable folded touring map

• you are planning a straightforward national road trip

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4. New Zealand National Geographic Adventure Map

The Best Waterproof National Map

The New Zealand National Geographic Folded Map is the strongest national choice for travellers who prioritise durability.

 

It is:

• waterproof

• tear resistant

• double sided

• suitable for outdoor use

• designed for repeated folding

The map is produced at approximately 1:1,100,000 and measures about 950 × 650 mm when opened.

One side covers the North Island from Cape Reinga to Wellington.

The reverse covers the South Island from Marlborough Sounds and Christchurch to Fiordland and Stewart Island/Rakiura.

It shows:

• motorways

• highways

• secondary roads

• scenic routes

• ferry links

• campgrounds

• viewpoints

• hiking tracks

• waterfalls

• hot springs

• geothermal areas

• national parks

• marine reserves

• cultural landmarks

• terrain and elevation shading

Its synthetic construction is particularly valuable in wet, windy and outdoor conditions. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the National Geographic Adventure Map when:

• waterproofing matters

• you are camping or backpacking

• the map will be carried outdoors

• you are exploring national parks

• you are travelling in Fiordland or alpine regions

• you want recreational information as well as roads

• you need one rugged map for both islands

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5. New Zealand Borch Folded Laminated Map

The Best Compact Laminated National Map

The New Zealand Borch Folded Laminated Map is designed for travellers who want national mapping and detailed city plans in a compact, durable format.

The main maps cover the North and South Islands at 1:1,300,000.

Detailed urban plans include:

• Auckland at 1:20,000

• Wellington at 1:20,000

• Christchurch at 1:20,000

• Dunedin at 1:15,000

• Nelson at 1:15,000

• Rotorua at 1:15,000

• Queenstown at 1:15,000

The map also contains:

• administrative mapping

• time-zone information

• visitor attractions

• conversion charts

• climate information

• travel facts

Its soft-laminated surface is waterproof, tear resistant and wipeable. The folded size is approximately 243 × 110 mm, making it easy to carry in a small bag or glovebox. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Borch map when:

• compact size is important

• you want pre-laminated protection

• several city plans are required

• you are making a shorter first visit

• the map will be opened frequently

• you want climate and travel-reference information

• you need one pocket-sized map for national and urban use

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Comparing the National Folded Maps

Map	Main scale	Key strength	Best use
Hema New Zealand/Aotearoa	1:1,600,000	Touring clarity and city insets	Best all-round folded map
Kiwimaps New Zealand	1:1,700,000	Local production, times and distances	National route planning
National Geographic Adventure	Approx. 1:1,100,000	Waterproof and recreation detail	Outdoor and adventure travel
Borch Laminated	1:1,300,000	Compact format and city plans	Urban and national travel

Choose Hema for balanced touring coverage.

Choose Kiwimaps for a clean New Zealand-produced national reference.

Choose National Geographic for waterproof outdoor use.

Choose Borch when compact laminated city and national mapping is the priority.

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6. New Zealand North Island Hema Map

The Best Overall North Island Map

The New Zealand North Island Hema Map provides substantially more detail than a national sheet.

It covers Te Ika-a-Māui at 1:1,000,000 and measures approximately 700 × 1000 mm.

The map shows:

• national highways

• regional roads

• backroads

• minor tracks

• ferry routes

• driving distances

• tourist routes

• national parks

• scenic lookouts

• walking trails

• forest parks

• lakes

• beaches

• volcanic areas

• visitor facilities

City and regional insets include Auckland and Wellington, while the map highlights major outdoor areas such as Tongariro, Te Urewera and the Taranaki region. (Mapworld)

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What the North Island Map Is Best For

The North Island contains several distinct touring regions:

• Northland and the Bay of Islands

• Auckland

• the Coromandel Peninsula

• Waikato and Waitomo

• Rotorua

• Taupō

• Tongariro

• Taranaki

• Hawke’s Bay

• the East Cape

• Wellington

• Wairarapa

A dedicated island map allows these regions to be studied together without the generalisation required on a complete national map.

Best For

Choose the Hema North Island map when:

• the trip is concentrated north of Cook Strait

• you are driving from Auckland to Wellington

• Rotorua and Taupō are major destinations

• you are visiting Tongariro National Park

• you are touring Northland or the East Cape

• you want both road and outdoor information

• you prefer a laminated option for repeated marking

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7. New Zealand North Island Kiwimaps Map

The Best Locally Produced North Island Map

The New Zealand North Island Kiwimaps Folded Map also covers the island at 1:1,000,000.

 

 

It measures approximately 615 × 880 mm and is designed specifically for:

• road trips

• scenic touring

• regional travel

• distance planning

• national-park access

• geographic reference

The map shows major highways, regional roads, tourist routes, natural features and recreation areas, supported by an index and practical touring information. (Mapworld)

Hema vs Kiwimaps North Island

Choose the Hema North Island map when:

• touring symbols and outdoor detail are important

• you want city and regional insets

• a laminated finish is required

• you are planning an adventure-focused journey

Choose Kiwimaps when:

• you prefer locally researched New Zealand cartography

• a compact conventional folded map is sufficient

• touring distances and regional roads are the main requirement

• you want a clear, straightforward North Island reference

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8. New Zealand South Island Hema Map

The Best Overall South Island Map

The New Zealand South Island Hema Map is one of the most useful products for Australian travellers planning a self-drive or campervan holiday.

It covers Te Waipounamu at 1:1,000,000 and unfolds to approximately 1000 × 700 mm.

The map shows:

• state highways

• regional roads

• backroads

• sealed and unsealed surfaces

• ferry links

• driving distances

• national parks

• walking areas

• alpine terrain

• lakes and rivers

• scenic routes

• towns and visitor services

Named touring routes include:

• the Alpine Pacific Touring Route

• the Southern Scenic Route

• the Great Coast Road

It is available as a folded paper map or in a pre-folded laminated format. (Mapworld)

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Why the South Island Needs Its Own Map

The South Island’s mountain ranges strongly shape its road network.

East–west movement is channelled through a limited number of passes and highway corridors.

A dedicated map helps travellers understand:

• the position of the Southern Alps

• the relationship between Christchurch and the West Coast

• access to Aoraki/Mount Cook

• routes through Tekapo and Central Otago

• the distance between Queenstown and Milford Sound

• the road network around Fiordland

• approaches to Nelson and Marlborough

• the difference between coastal and inland routes

Best For

Choose the Hema South Island map when:

• you are touring by campervan

• you plan to visit several national parks

• Queenstown, Wānaka and Fiordland are central to the journey

• you are travelling along the West Coast

• you want scenic touring routes identified

• road surfaces and drive distances matter

• you need a laminated map for vehicle use

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9. New Zealand South Island Kiwimaps Map

The Best New Zealand-Made South Island Map

The New Zealand South Island Kiwimaps Folded Map covers the full island at 1:1,000,000.

It measures approximately 615 × 880 mm and includes:

• major and regional roads

• cities and towns

• national parks

• glaciers

• lakes

• mountains

• rivers

• recreation areas

• a distance table

• a travel-time inset

• a complete index

It is particularly useful for understanding practical driving times between South Island destinations. (Mapworld)

Hema vs Kiwimaps South Island

Choose Hema when:

• scenic routes and touring symbols are important

• you want road-surface information

• you need a laminated option

• outdoor recreation is central to the journey

Choose Kiwimaps when:

• travel times and distances are priorities

• you prefer a New Zealand-produced map

• you want a compact traditional folded sheet

• you need a clear complete-island overview

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10. Auckland Complete Kiwimaps Map

The Best Detailed Map of Auckland

The Auckland Complete Kiwimaps Folded Map provides far more local detail than the small Auckland inset found on a national touring map.

The main metropolitan map is produced at 1:40,000, with central Auckland enlarged to 1:12,500.

Coverage includes:

• Auckland CBD

• North Shore

• Albany

• Takapuna

• Henderson

• Manukau

• southern suburbs

• Pukekohe

• rail stations

• ferry terminals

• major roads

• car parks

• public buildings

• Auckland Airport

The map is double sided and designed for residents, visitors, delivery drivers and business users. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Auckland Complete map when:

• Auckland is more than an arrival point

• you are staying in several suburbs

• you are driving rather than relying solely on public transport

• you need airport and ferry-terminal detail

• you are visiting the North Shore

• the map will be used for business or service planning

• street-level metropolitan coverage is required

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11. Wellington Complete Kiwimaps Map

The Best Map for Wellington, the Kāpiti Coast and Wairarapa

The Wellington Complete Kiwimaps Folded Map combines metropolitan mapping with much broader regional coverage.

The main map is produced at 1:35,000, with selected insets at 1:15,000.

Coverage includes:

• Wellington City

• Lower and Upper Hutt

• Porirua

• Kāpiti Coast

• Waikanae

• Ōtaki

• Levin

• Masterton

• surrounding regional roads

• rail lines

• postcode boundaries

The map measures approximately 1000 × 960 mm unfolded and contains detailed street indexing. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Wellington Complete map when:

• you are staying in the capital

• you are travelling around the Hutt Valley

• you are exploring the Kāpiti Coast

• you are making a trip into Wairarapa

• you need ferry-terminal and regional-road context

• postcode and business planning are important

• you want one map extending well beyond the CBD

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12. Christchurch Visitor Kiwimaps Map

The Best Map for Christchurch and Nearby Towns

The Christchurch Visitor Kiwimaps Folded Map is designed for shorter stays and regional day trips.

It includes:

• Christchurch metropolitan streets

• a larger-scale central-city inset

• Rangiora

• Kaiapoi

• Rolleston

• Lincoln

• major landmarks

• visitor facilities

• road links into surrounding Canterbury

The compact folded format makes it suitable for a pocket, backpack or glovebox. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Christchurch Visitor map when:

• you are beginning or ending a South Island road trip in Christchurch

• you want central-city street detail

• you are visiting surrounding Canterbury towns

• you are making a short business or leisure visit

• you need more local detail than a South Island map provides

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13. New Zealand Topo50 Maps

The Best Maps for Tramping and Detailed Terrain

Mapworld’s New Zealand 1:50,000 Topographic Map collection provides the most detailed national topographic coverage available through the range.

The maps are based on the official Topo50 series from Toitū Te Whenua Land Information New Zealand.

At 1:50,000:

• one centimetre represents 500 metres

• one kilometre occupies two centimetres on the map

Topo50 sheets may show:

• contour lines

• spot heights

• mountain ridges

• rivers and streams

• lakes and wetlands

• native bush

• open land

• roads

• tracks

• huts

• bridges

• boundaries

• buildings

• significant landmarks

Mapworld can produce any required sheet through the custom New Zealand 50K Topographic Maps listing. (Mapworld)

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When to Use Topo50 Mapping

Topo50 maps are designed for a different purpose from touring maps.

They are particularly valuable for:

• tramping

• hunting

• fieldwork

• environmental projects

• land management

• emergency operations

• outdoor education

• detailed national-park planning

• identifying terrain and drainage

• studying a specific valley, mountain or coastline

A national touring map may show the road to a national park.

A Topo50 sheet helps explain the terrain within it.

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Available Topo50 Formats

Mapworld supplies selected Topo50 sheets in several formats.

Folded Paper

Best for:

• lightweight field use

• carrying several adjoining sheets

• writing permanent notes

• economical route planning

Waterproof

Best for:

• alpine conditions

• rain

• river valleys

• multi-day tramps

• hunting

• repeated outdoor use

Flat Paper

Best for:

• classrooms

• framing

• office display

• pin boards

• detailed study

Laminated

Best for:

• repeated route marking

• operations rooms

• outdoor-education centres

• professional field planning

• wipe-clean use with suitable whiteboard markers

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14. New Zealand 1:250,000 Topographic Maps

The Best Scale for Broad Regional Terrain

The New Zealand 1:250,000 topographic map collection provides a wider view than Topo50.

At 1:250,000:

• one centimetre represents 2.5 kilometres

• each sheet covers a much larger region

The maps show:

• highways

• regional roads

• towns

• rivers

• mountain ranges

• national parks

• coastlines

• general topography

• broad regional relationships

They are available in paper, waterproof and laminated formats. (Mapworld)

When to Choose 1:250,000

Choose this scale when:

• Topo50 covers too little ground

• regional terrain matters

• you are planning a long route

• the map is for education or broad field planning

• several national parks or districts must be viewed together

• you need more physical geography than a conventional road map provides

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Topo50 vs 1:250,000

Feature	Topo50	1:250,000
Scale	1:50,000	1:250,000
Ground distance per centimetre	500 metres	2.5 kilometres
Area covered	One detailed locality	Broad region
Contour and terrain detail	Very high	Generalised
Best for tramping	Excellent	Regional overview only
Best for road touring	Local context	Stronger regional context
Best for field projects	Detailed site work	Broad project planning
Number of sheets needed	More	Fewer

The distinction is simple:

Topo50 helps you understand a particular piece of New Zealand in detail.

1:250,000 mapping helps you understand a wider region.

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15. New Zealand National Geographic Classic Wall Map

The Best Standard Wall Map of New Zealand

The New Zealand National Geographic 597 × 768 mm Wall Map is the best general wall map for homes, classrooms and offices.

It is produced at 1:2,300,000 and includes:

• North and South Islands

• English and te reo Māori place names

• cities and towns

• highways

• regional roads

• railways

• airports

• national parks

• mountains

• rivers

• lakes

• fjords

• glaciers

• volcanic regions

• shaded relief

The standard size is large enough for useful reference while remaining suitable for a normal home or office wall. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Classic National Geographic map when:

• you want a balanced modern wall map

• the map is for travel planning

• you are teaching New Zealand geography

• bilingual place names are important

• you need a map for an office or library

• you want a meaningful New Zealand gift

• the available wall space is limited

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16. New Zealand Executive National Geographic Wall Map

The Best Antique-Style Modern Map

The New Zealand Executive Antique Style National Geographic Wall Map provides the same general geographic coverage in a warmer, more decorative presentation.

It measures 597 × 768 mm and uses National Geographic’s Executive styling, with subdued earth tones suited to:

• traditional studies

• libraries

• executive offices

• heritage interiors

• boardrooms

• living rooms

It retains the useful geographic information of a contemporary map while offering a more classical visual character. (Mapworld)

Classic vs Executive Style

Choose Classic when:

• blue oceans and brighter relief are preferred

• the map is for a classroom

• strong visual contrast matters

• the interior is modern

Choose Executive when:

• the map will form part of the décor

• warmer neutral colours are preferred

• the room has timber furniture

• a traditional office or library appearance is desired

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17. New Zealand National Geographic Supermap

The Best Large Wall Map for Planning and Education

The New Zealand National Geographic 1000 × 1300 mm Supermap enlarges the National Geographic cartography into a substantial room-scale reference.

It is produced at 1:2,300,000 and includes:

• bilingual English and Māori names

• highways

• railways

• airports

• national parks

• lakes

• rivers

• mountains

• fjords

• glaciers

• volcanoes

• shaded topography

The increased dimensions make labels and terrain easier to interpret from across a classroom, meeting room or office. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Supermap when:

• several people need to view the map together

• you are planning a long national journey

• the map is for a school

• the map is for a travel or logistics business

• it will be used in a boardroom

• a dramatic New Zealand wall feature is desired

• the standard map is too small for the room

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18. New Zealand Atlas of the World Wall Map

The Best Atlas-Style Wall Map

The New Zealand Atlas of the World, 11th Edition, National Geographic Wall Map is based on mapping originally created for the National Geographic Atlas of the World.

It combines:

• physical geography

• political detail

• cities and towns

• roads

• rivers

• coastlines

• mountain ranges

• shaded relief

• an Oblique Mercator presentation

Mapworld offers the title in standard and Supermap sizes, with paper, laminated, canvas and timber-hung options. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Atlas of the World map when:

• you appreciate atlas-quality cartography

• the map is for a library or study

• physical and political detail are both important

• you want a choice of standard and enlarged formats

• the wall map is intended as a refined educational display

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19. New Zealand Physical and Political Wall Map

The Best Large General-Purpose Wall Map

The New Zealand Wall Map 914 × 1219 mm offers a large physical and political view at 1:2,000,000.

 

It includes:

• relief shading

• colour-coded elevation

• regions and boundaries

• cities and major towns

• mountains

• valleys

• coastal lowlands

• outlying islands

• surrounding Pacific waters

Its dimensions provide a useful compromise between the standard National Geographic map and the full Supermap. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose this map when:

• terrain is a major interest

• elevation colouring is useful

• you need a large classroom map

• regional geography is being studied

• the map will be used for travel planning

• a large decorative national map is required

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Wall-Map Finishes

Most Mapworld New Zealand wall maps are available in several professionally produced finishes.

Premium Paper

Depending on the title, paper maps are printed on approximately 160 or 170 gsm matte stock.

Paper is best for:

• framing beneath glass

• pinning to a suitable backing board

• lower-cost display

• collectors who prefer an unlaminated map

Laminated

Mapworld’s laminated wall maps are encapsulated in gloss laminate.

The resulting surface is:

• durable

• wipe clean

• resistant to tearing

• suitable for whiteboard markers

• compatible with removable map dots

Lamination is ideal for:

• journey planning

• classrooms

• tour operators

• businesses

• schools

• repeated marking

Laminated with Timber Hang Rails

Laminated maps can be fitted with:

• natural timber top and bottom rails

• hanging cord

• a ready-to-display finish

Archival Canvas

Canvas maps are printed on 395 gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas using pigment-based inks.

Canvas is best for:

• homes

• studies

• offices

• libraries

• decorative display

• reduced glare

Canvas with Timber Hang Rails

Canvas can also be professionally mounted with natural timber hang rails.

Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery of hang-railed maps, as each one is professionally mounted by Mapworld’s framer. (Mapworld)

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20. New Zealand Wall Map by John Tallis & Company, 1851

The Best Victorian Historical Map

The New Zealand Wall Map by John Tallis & Company 1851 combines mid-19th-century geography with the decorative artistry for which Tallis maps are known.

The reproduction includes:

• engraved cartography

• ornate borders

• illustrated vignettes

• period place names

• historic regional detail

• Victorian presentation

It is as much a decorative print as a geographic record. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Tallis map when:

• you collect antique cartography

• Victorian illustration is appealing

• the map will be used as wall art

• you are studying colonial-era mapping

• you want a distinctive New Zealand heritage gift

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21. New Zealand Wall Map by J. Bartholomew, 1874

The Best Late-19th-Century Map

The New Zealand Wall Map by J. Bartholomew published in 1874 presents New Zealand during a period of expanding European settlement and increasingly detailed surveying.

The reproduction measures approximately 600 × 466 mm and includes:

• period settlements

• geographic names

• regional divisions

• coastlines

• mountain and river information

• engraved 19th-century styling

It is available in paper, laminated, canvas and hang-railed finishes. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Bartholomew map when:

• you want a compact historical map

• 19th-century geography is the focus

• the map is for a study or heritage interior

• you are comparing historical and modern place names

• you need an unusual gift for someone connected to New Zealand

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22. Auckland Historic Wall Map 1959

The Best Historic Map of Auckland

The Auckland Historic Wall Map 1959 reproduces an original New Zealand Department of Lands and Survey map.

It measures approximately 960 × 780 mm and shows Auckland during a major period of post-war urban growth.

The map records:

• roads

• suburbs

• infrastructure

• coastlines

• settlements

• urban expansion

• the regional geography of the period

It is particularly effective when displayed alongside a contemporary Auckland map. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Auckland 1959 map when:

• you have a family or personal connection to Auckland

• urban growth is being studied

• you collect mid-century cartography

• you want historically meaningful wall art

• the map is for a heritage office, library or home

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23. North Island Historic Wall Map 1937

The Best Historical Map of the North Island

The North Island Historic Wall Map 1937 reproduces official Department of Lands and Survey mapping.

It measures approximately 950 × 707 mm and records:

• settlements

• transport links

• regional geography

• period infrastructure

• coastlines

• mountain and river systems

• place names used during the 1930s

It is available in paper, laminate, canvas and timber-hung finishes. (Mapworld)

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24. South Island Historic Wall Map 1926

The Best Historical Map of the South Island

The South Island Historic Wall Map 1926 preserves an early-20th-century Department of Lands and Survey view of Te Waipounamu.

The map includes:

• historic settlements

• early transport infrastructure

• mountain ranges

• rivers and lakes

• political boundaries

• period place names

• detailed South Island topography

It works particularly well as a heritage companion to a modern South Island touring or wall map. (Mapworld)

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25. Rotorua Historic Wall Map 1966

The Best Historic Regional Map

The Rotorua Historic Wall Map 1966 presents the city and surrounding geothermal and lake district from a mid-20th-century perspective.

The unusually wide reproduction measures approximately 910 × 210 mm and shows:

• roads

• railways

• settlements

• lakes

• geothermal features

• surrounding landscapes

Its panoramic dimensions make it a distinctive wall piece. (Mapworld)

Best For

Choose the Rotorua 1966 map when:

• you have a connection to Rotorua

• geothermal tourism history is of interest

• you want an unusual panoramic map

• mid-century New Zealand cartography is being collected

• you need a meaningful regional gift

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Modern vs Historical New Zealand Wall Maps

Map type	Best use
National Geographic Classic	Current geography, education and travel planning
National Geographic Executive	Current geography with antique styling
National Geographic Supermap	Large classrooms and planning rooms
Atlas of the World map	Refined atlas-style reference
Physical and Political 914 × 1219 mm	Large terrain and regional study
Tallis 1851	Victorian art and early colonial geography
Bartholomew 1874	Late-19th-century geographic reference
Auckland 1959	Urban history
North Island 1937	Regional historical study
South Island 1926	Historic South Island geography
Rotorua 1966	Local history and panoramic display

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Maps for a First New Zealand Road Trip

For a journey covering both main islands, choose:

• Hema New Zealand Touring Atlas

• Hema New Zealand/Aotearoa Touring Map

• National Geographic Adventure Map as a waterproof backup

• offline digital navigation

• current ferry, weather and road information

The folded map provides the national overview.

The atlas supports detailed daily planning.

The waterproof map provides additional outdoor durability.

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Maps for a North Island Road Trip

A strong North Island kit includes:

• Hema North Island Map

• Kiwimaps North Island Map

• Auckland Complete Map

• Wellington Complete Map

• relevant Topo50 sheets for walking areas

This combination works well for travel through:

• Auckland

• Northland

• Coromandel

• Rotorua

• Taupō

• Tongariro

• Taranaki

• Hawke’s Bay

• Wellington

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Maps for a South Island Campervan Journey

Choose:

• Hema South Island Map

• Kiwimaps South Island Map

• Hema Touring Atlas

• Christchurch Visitor Map

• offline digital navigation

• current alpine-road and weather information

The Hema map highlights touring routes and road surfaces.

The Kiwimaps sheet adds travel-time and distance planning.

The atlas provides more detailed day-by-day road coverage.

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Maps for Tramping and National Parks

A suitable outdoor kit includes:

• National Geographic New Zealand Adventure Map

• the relevant New Zealand Topo50 sheet

• a compass

• offline digital mapping

• current track and weather information

The national map helps identify the position of the park within the journey.

The Topo50 map provides detailed terrain, tracks, rivers and contours.

Browse Mapworld’s compasses and navigational equipment when assembling an outdoor navigation kit.

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Maps for Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch

Auckland

Use the Auckland Complete Kiwimaps Map for detailed metropolitan and airport coverage.

Wellington

Use the Wellington Complete Kiwimaps Map for the city, Hutt Valley, Kāpiti Coast and Wairarapa.

Christchurch

Use the Christchurch Visitor Kiwimaps Map for central-city navigation and surrounding Canterbury towns.

National and island maps contain urban insets, but dedicated city maps provide much greater street and suburban detail.

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Maps for Schools and Classrooms

A strong New Zealand educational set includes:

• New Zealand National Geographic Classic Wall Map

• New Zealand National Geographic Supermap

• New Zealand Physical and Political Wall Map

• New Zealand 1:250,000 maps

• selected Topo50 maps

• North Island Historic Map 1937

• South Island Historic Map 1926

Together, these support study of:

• physical geography

• political geography

• tectonics

• volcanism

• rivers and drainage

• mountain formation

• settlement

• transport

• bilingual place names

• urban growth

• historical cartography

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Maps for Businesses and Travel Planners

Suitable options include:

• New Zealand National Geographic Supermap

• New Zealand Wall Map 914 × 1219 mm

• Auckland Complete Kiwimaps Map

• Wellington Complete Kiwimaps Map

• Hema New Zealand Touring Atlas

These products are useful for:

• travel agencies

• freight and logistics

• educational institutions

• sales territories

• service planning

• tour operations

• emergency and field planning

• boardroom reference

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Paper, Laminated or Waterproof?

Folded Paper

Best for:

• lightweight travel

• conventional road trips

• carrying several maps

• permanent handwritten notes

• lower-cost map kits

Pre-Folded Laminated

Best for:

• repeated vehicle use

• writing with suitable whiteboard markers

• protection from spills

• campervan trips

• families and group planning

Waterproof Synthetic

Best for:

• rain

• camping

• tramping

• boats and ferries

• outdoor handling

• Fiordland and alpine environments

The National Geographic Adventure Map is the strongest waterproof national choice.

Laminated Wall Maps

Best for:

• marking itineraries

• classrooms

• businesses

• tour operators

• repeated reference

• use with removable map dots

Canvas Wall Maps

Best for:

• interior display

• home offices

• libraries

• boardrooms

• gifts

• collectors

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Current Conditions Matter More Than Printed Distance

New Zealand travel times depend on more than kilometres.

Journeys may be affected by:

• mountain roads

• narrow highways

• snow

• ice

• heavy rain

• flooding

• slips and landslides

• roadworks

• ferry disruption

• strong wind

• wildlife or livestock

• seasonal traffic

• limited overtaking opportunities

A printed map is a planning and navigation tool.

It cannot report:

• a pass closed this morning

• a ferry cancelled because of weather

• a road damaged by a slip

• a track closed for maintenance

• a current severe-weather warning

Before and during the journey, check:

• road-authority updates

• ferry operators

• weather forecasts

• national-park and track alerts

• local visitor centres

• accommodation providers

• official emergency advice

Use the map to understand the geography.

Use current official information to make immediate travel decisions.

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Why Paper Maps Still Matter in New Zealand

New Zealand may appear easy to navigate because its principal highway network is relatively clear.

But a paper map remains valuable because it allows travellers to:

• understand both islands at once

• compare several road-trip loops

• identify mountain barriers

• see east–west route limitations

• plan ferry connections

• estimate daily travel stages

• find scenic alternatives

• avoid unnecessary backtracking

• discuss the itinerary with companions

• discover places beyond digital recommendations

• retain an independent backup

A phone efficiently guides a driver through the next turn.

A paper map explains the country through which that road passes.

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Why Buy New Zealand Maps from Mapworld?

Mapworld’s New Zealand collection brings together a much broader range than a general travel retailer is likely to hold.

It includes:

• national touring maps

• detailed road atlases

• North Island maps

• South Island maps

• Auckland maps

• Wellington maps

• Christchurch maps

• waterproof adventure maps

• Topo50 mapping

• 1:250,000 topographic mapping

• modern wall maps

• historical maps

• National Geographic maps

• Hema products

• Kiwimaps products

• Borch maps

For larger planning and display products, browse:

• Australia, Asia and New Zealand Wall Maps

• New Zealand Wall Maps

• New Zealand Topo50 Maps

• New Zealand 1:250,000 Maps

A general bookstore may offer one national map.

Mapworld can help build a complete mapping system around the journey.

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Complete New Zealand Map Directory

National Touring Maps and Atlases

• New Zealand Touring Atlas Spiral – Hema

• New Zealand/Aotearoa Folded Touring Map – Hema

• New Zealand Kiwimaps Folded Map

• New Zealand National Geographic Adventure Map

• New Zealand Borch Folded Laminated Map

North and South Island Maps

• New Zealand North Island Hema Map

• New Zealand North Island Kiwimaps Map

• New Zealand South Island Hema Map

• New Zealand South Island Kiwimaps Map

City Maps

• Auckland Complete Kiwimaps Map

• Wellington Complete Kiwimaps Map

• Christchurch Visitor Kiwimaps Map

Topographic Maps

• New Zealand Topo50 Collection

• Custom New Zealand 50K Topographic Map

• New Zealand 1:250,000 Topographic Maps

Modern Wall Maps

• New Zealand National Geographic 597 × 768 mm Wall Map

• New Zealand Executive National Geographic Wall Map

• New Zealand National Geographic 1000 × 1300 mm Supermap

• New Zealand Atlas of the World Wall Map

• New Zealand Physical and Political Wall Map 914 × 1219 mm

Historical Wall Maps

• New Zealand Wall Map by John Tallis & Company 1851

• New Zealand Wall Map by J. Bartholomew 1874

• Auckland Historic Wall Map 1959

• North Island Historic Wall Map 1937

• South Island Historic Wall Map 1926

• Rotorua Historic Wall Map 1966

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Final Verdict

The best map for New Zealand is not necessarily one map.

It is a carefully selected combination.

Best Overall Atlas

The Hema New Zealand Touring Atlas is the strongest all-in-one resource for long road trips, campervan journeys and detailed daily planning.

Best Folded Touring Map

The Hema New Zealand/Aotearoa Touring Map is the best quick-reference national map, combining both islands with useful city insets.

Best New Zealand-Made Map

The Kiwimaps New Zealand Folded Map offers a clear local perspective supported by travel-time, distance and geographic indexes.

Best Waterproof Map

The National Geographic Adventure Map is the strongest choice for camping, tramping and wet outdoor conditions.

Best Compact Laminated Map

The Borch Folded Laminated Map combines national coverage with seven detailed city plans in a small, durable format.

Best North Island Map

The Hema North Island Map offers the strongest combination of touring, road and recreation information.

Best South Island Map

The Hema South Island Map is particularly well suited to campervan trips, alpine routes and scenic touring.

Best Topographic Map

Use Topo50 for detailed tramping and terrain information.

Use 1:250,000 maps for broad regional topographic context.

Best Standard Wall Map

The New Zealand National Geographic Classic Wall Map is the best balanced option for travel planning, education and display.

Best Large Wall Map

The New Zealand National Geographic Supermap provides the strongest shared reference for classrooms, offices and large planning spaces.

Best Historical Map

The John Tallis New Zealand Map from 1851 is the most decorative Victorian option, while the North Island, South Island, Auckland and Rotorua historical maps provide more focused regional perspectives.

Best Complete Map Kit

For most serious journeys, carry:

• a national touring map

• a detailed atlas

• the relevant North or South Island map

• selected Topo50 sheets where required

• offline digital navigation

• current road, ferry and weather information

New Zealand rewards preparation.

The right maps will not clear snow from a mountain pass, prevent a ferry delay or reopen a road affected by a landslide.

They will, however, help travellers understand:

• where they are going

• what lies between destinations

• how the islands fit together

• where mountain ranges restrict travel

• which scenic alternatives exist

• how far a detour may add

• when detailed topographic mapping is required

In a country whose geography is the foundation of the journey, that broader understanding is invaluable.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best overall map of New Zealand?

The Hema New Zealand/Aotearoa Touring Map is the best single folded national map. For greater road detail, pair it with the Hema New Zealand Touring Atlas.

What is the best New Zealand road atlas?

The Hema New Zealand Touring Atlas is the most comprehensive road atlas in the Mapworld range, with approximately 80 pages of touring maps and 28 city and suburban maps.

What is the best map for a New Zealand campervan holiday?

Use the Hema Touring Atlas together with the relevant Hema North Island or South Island map.

What is the best waterproof map of New Zealand?

The National Geographic New Zealand Adventure Map is waterproof, tear resistant and double sided.

What is the best compact laminated map?

The Borch New Zealand Folded Laminated Map provides national mapping and seven city plans in a small wipe-clean format.

What is the best map for the North Island?

The Hema North Island Map is the strongest all-round touring choice. The Kiwimaps North Island Map is an excellent locally produced alternative.

What is the best map for the South Island?

The Hema South Island Map is ideal for road trips, campervans and scenic touring. The Kiwimaps South Island Map adds a useful distance table and travel-time map.

What scale are the Hema island maps?

Both Hema island maps are produced at approximately 1:1,000,000, where one centimetre represents ten kilometres.

What is the best map for Auckland?

The Auckland Complete Kiwimaps Folded Map provides detailed metropolitan coverage at 1:40,000, with central Auckland at 1:12,500.

What is the best map for Wellington?

The Wellington Complete Kiwimaps Map covers Wellington, Hutt Valley, Porirua, Kāpiti Coast, Levin and Masterton.

What is the best map for Christchurch?

The Christchurch Visitor Kiwimaps Map covers the metropolitan area, central city and nearby towns including Rangiora, Kaiapoi, Rolleston and Lincoln.

What are New Zealand Topo50 maps?

Topo50 maps are detailed 1:50,000 official topographic maps showing contours, terrain, waterways, tracks, roads, vegetation, huts and other features.

Are Topo50 maps suitable for tramping?

Yes. They are the most appropriate printed maps in the Mapworld range for detailed terrain and track planning.

Should I choose Topo50 or 1:250,000?

Choose Topo50 for detailed local navigation. Choose 1:250,000 when you need a broader regional overview.

Can Mapworld supply any Topo50 sheet?

Mapworld offers access to the complete Topo50 series through its custom topographic-map listing. Enter the required sheet code in the order notes.

Are topographic maps available waterproof?

Yes. Selected New Zealand topographic sheets are available in paper, waterproof, flat and laminated formats.

What is the best wall map of New Zealand?

The National Geographic 597 × 768 mm Classic Wall Map is the best standard-sized choice.

What is the largest New Zealand wall map?

The New Zealand National Geographic Supermap measures approximately 1000 × 1300 mm.

What is the difference between Classic and Executive National Geographic maps?

The Classic map uses blue oceans and brighter terrain colouring. The Executive map uses warmer antique-style tones suited to traditional interiors.

Are New Zealand wall maps available laminated?

Yes. Most Mapworld wall maps are available in paper, laminated, canvas and hang-railed formats.

Can laminated maps be written on?

Yes. Laminated wall maps can be marked with suitable whiteboard markers and wiped clean.

Can I use map dots on a laminated New Zealand map?

Yes. Removable map dots are suitable for marking destinations, previous journeys or future itineraries.

Are New Zealand wall maps available on canvas?

Yes. Selected titles are printed on 395 gsm HP Professional Matte Canvas using pigment-based inks.

Can wall maps be supplied with timber hang rails?

Yes. Selected laminated and canvas maps can be fitted with natural timber hang rails and a hanging cord.

How long do hang-railed maps take?

Please allow up to 10 working days for delivery because each hang-railed map is professionally mounted by Mapworld’s framer.

What is the best historical map of New Zealand?

The John Tallis map from 1851 is the most decorative Victorian option. The J. Bartholomew map from 1874 provides a later 19th-century geographic perspective.

Does Mapworld sell historic maps of individual New Zealand regions?

Yes. The range includes Auckland 1959, North Island 1937, South Island 1926 and Rotorua 1966 maps.

Do I need a paper map when using Google Maps?

Digital navigation is valuable, but a paper map provides national perspective, alternative routes and an independent backup that does not depend on battery power or reception.

Where can I buy New Zealand maps in Australia?

Mapworld stocks New Zealand touring maps, atlases, island maps, city maps, topographic sheets and wall maps with Australia-wide delivery.

Written by Christopher O’Keeffe
Managing Director of Mapworld and specialist in maps, navigation and cartographic products.

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