Land Information New Zealand Nautical Chart

The nautical charts published by Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) are the official reference for navigation in waters under New Zealand jurisdiction. Compliant with the standards of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), these charts cover the country's coasts, straits, ports and offshore areas.

Its hydrographic service is responsible for producing and disseminating the information required for maritime safety in one of the most diverse and demanding maritime environments in the Southern Hemisphere. Choosing official LINZ charting is essential for safety and regulatory compliance for any vessel operating in these waters, which are characterised by highly indented coastlines and rapidly changing weather conditions.

What is this chart used for?

The value of a LINZ nautical chart lies in its ability to provide comprehensive hydrographic information, turning the navigation chart into an essential decision-making tool.

• Voyage planning: Paper charts remain an essential tool for planning routes while taking into account significant underwater relief and seabed features.

• Safe navigation in complex areas: They enable precise navigation through major straits, particularly Cook Strait, as well as the bays and coastal waters of New Zealand.

• Maritime training: They provide a reference resource for navigation training and learning chartwork.

• Safety back-up and redundancy: They provide a reliable onboard back-up in the event of electronic navigation system failure.

Who are these charts recommended for?

The Nautic Way Maritime Bookshop offers these official charting products to meet the operational requirements of maritime users navigating in New Zealand waters.

• Professional mariners: For whom official status and compliance with international standards are essential requirements.

• Offshore skippers and sailors: Particularly experienced navigators preparing voyages in the Southern Hemisphere.

• Fishermen and workboats: An essential tool for supporting the safety of commercial and industrial maritime activities.

• Scientific expeditions: These charts provide an important reference for oceanographic missions operating in areas that may include volcanic environments.

Reading and understanding the chart

The value of LINZ charts lies in the wealth and accuracy of the technical information validated by the national hydrographic authority.

• Detailed bathymetry: Depths are shown in metres, together with detailed depth contours.

• Aids to navigation: The charts show official navigation marks, including lighthouses, lights, buoys, beacons and leading lines.

• Identification of hazards: Shoals, rocks, reefs and wrecks are clearly identified.

• Regulated areas: Marine reserves, military zones and local restrictions are clearly delineated.

• Scales and formats: The catalogue includes 55 products, including 21 coastal charts, 30 nearshore charts and 3 offshore charts, supplied flat and rolled in a tube.

Reliability, updates and safety

Safety in New Zealand waters depends on the continuous updating of navigation information.

• Regular updates: LINZ regularly publishes Notices to Mariners to ensure reliable and up-to-date navigation information.

• Printed to order: At Nautic Way, all nautical charts are printed to order to ensure that they incorporate the latest available hydrographic corrections.

• Operational caution: Despite their high level of coastal detail, navigators must remain vigilant regarding strong currents and exposure to ocean swells.

• Contractual provisions: In accordance with Article L221-28 of the French Consumer Code, these products cannot be returned or exchanged because they may become obsolete rapidly.

Nautic Way's expertise for mariners

Choosing the Nautic Way Maritime Bookshop means relying on a recognised specialist in international nautical charting.

• Specialist supplier: Nautic Way supports both leisure sailors and professionals with a catalogue of more than 25,000 references.

• Official charting: We select and supply official Land Information New Zealand charts to meet the requirements of demanding navigators.

• Personalised advice: Our team, based in Challans (85300), France, at 9 rue Benjamin Rabier, provides specialist advice to help each mariner with their navigation plans.

FAQ

Which nautical chart should I choose for navigation in New Zealand?

The choice depends on your intended navigation area. LINZ offers charts covering coastal, nearshore and offshore areas, including some charts covering the wider South Pacific, such as the Tonga and Samoa Islands. It is recommended to define your intended route precisely before selecting the appropriate chart.

Is this chart sufficient on its own for safe navigation?

Although comprehensive and official, a LINZ chart is one essential component of a broader navigation strategy. It should be used together with other relevant nautical publications, including sailing directions and light lists, as appropriate.

How often should a LINZ chart be replaced?

Nautical charts can become obsolete relatively quickly due to changes in aids to navigation, hydrographic information and other maritime conditions. It is therefore essential to use a recent edition incorporating the latest available corrections.

Can it be used with a GPS?

Yes. Official LINZ paper charts and electronic navigational charts (ENCs) are based on the same official hydrographic data, allowing GPS-derived positions to be plotted and cross-checked on the paper chart.

What is the difference between a SHOM chart and a LINZ chart?

SHOM is the official hydrographic authority for French waters, while LINZ is the official hydrographic authority for New Zealand waters. Both apply the standards of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) within their respective areas of responsibility.