Update GPS Settings

How to coordinate your GPS unit with Topo50

Setting the new datum, NZGD2000

For those using current GPS systems, you can change the settings on your GPS receiver to NZGD2000, the datum used by Topo50 to determine latitudes and longitudes.

If your GPS does not support NZGD2000, it will still be able to support Topo50. You can simply set your GPS receiver to the default datum setting of World Geodetic System 1984 (WGS84) .

For all practical purposes, WGS84 is the same as NZGD2000. This means that latitudes and longitudes from your GPS receiver will be compatible with those shown on Topo50 maps.

Setting the new projection, NZTM2000

To get Topo50 grid coordinates (northings and eastings), check that your GPS supports the projection used for Topo50 maps, NZTM2000. Either select the appropriate menu option in your GPS unit or check the specifications in the user manual.

If your GPS does not support NZTM2000, the receiver may have the capability to input a user-defined projection. Many GPS receivers have this capability. You may need to consult the user manual on how to access this feature.

You will need to set up your receiver with the following NZTM2000 parameters:

Projection	Transverse Mercator
Origin Latitude	0.0 degrees South
Origin Longitude	173.0 degrees East
False Northing	10,000,000 m North
False Easting	1,600,000 m East
Central Meridian scale factor	0.9996

Note: this projection is the same as a Universal Transverse Mercator (UTM) but with a different origin latitude, and different false northing and easting.

More information

Find out more about GPS in New Zealand and coordinate conversions .