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Whenever I need a map, I always use Google Maps. Here’s why:

  1. The great search abilities – As well as automatically suggesting locations as you type in an address like other map sites, Google Maps also allows you to just type what you are looking for into the search box. For example if I type ‘Skycity’ into the search box Google will bring up addresses for Skycity Grand Hotel and Skycity Cinema locations then I can just click on the one I want. I could also for type in ‘Hairdressers Mt Eden’ and see all the hairdressers in Mt Eden, displayed on a map.
  2. The default location feature- Google Maps allows you to set a default location. This means that whenever you go to the Google Maps homepage it will bring up a map of that location. Setting this to your home or work location can save you some time because you will already have your starting point entered in.
  3. The directions – Not only does Google show you where to go on a map it gives you great directions as well. These directions include the total distance, as well as distances between points, and the estimated time of the journey for both driving and walking. If you don’t like the route that Google Maps is suggesting (the shortest route by distance) then you can adjust it by clicking on a point in the journey on the map and dragging it to where you would like to go.
  4. Multiple destinations – Need go from one point to another but stop at specific places along the way? Google maps allow you to enter multiply destinations to your journey.
  5. My Maps – If you have a Google account (you can get one for free here) My Maps allows you to save and personalise maps. You can even share the maps you create with others.

Street view, another great feature of Google maps, is said to be becoming available in New Zealand soon. To learn more click here.

To visit the Google Maps site click here.