End of the Topomap 260

Land Information NZ (LINZ) has decided to change the way they put our maps together. This means the end of the 260 series topo maps. A new map series NZTopo50 will be introduced during 2008/2009.

For the record it's because they've switched from something they call NZGD49/NZMG to something they call NZGD2000/NZTM. But when they start talking about 'spatial reference systems' my eyes glaze over.

If you're interested here's the link to the LINZ announcement:

http://www.linz.govt.nz/docs/topography/topo_info_strategy_2005_2010.pdf

A year ago LINZ ran a survey to see what should be done about the topo maps. The feedback they received was that a high quality printed topomap was essential.

I've heard GPS fans saying printed maps were finished. Yeah sure. Of course these are the ones who never bothered learning how to read maps to start with. And I still hear of them getting themselves navigationally embarrassed even with their gadgets.

I'm happy anywhere with a topo and my $25.00 compass.

I'll be upgrading early on, but I've got more than 100 topos so I won't be replacing the whole lot on day one.

I guess for most people there'll be a drawn-out changeover. When I joined the CTC in the early 90s I was surprised at how many were still using their old 'Inch to a Mile' maps. And I occasionally see them being used even now.

Comments

[Paul Brewer]

Im in the older tramper range so Topo maps do it for me. Those little wee screens dont give you much of a feeeling for area and i find i can sort myself out much quicker with a map. I carnt help wondering what you do when the batteries run down or it gets too cold to work.

[Frank]

Paul, completely agree but it's not age. There's visual information on a topomap that currently can't be made available any other way. Now when they can produce a GPS that has a screen at least 30 x 40 cm, can be folded and put in the pocket you sit on, and can run for a week on an hour of sunlight... well then map makers should be worried.