Google announces Google Maps New Zealand

Google Inc. is launching the Google Maps New Zealand service, including map and satellite images, New Zealand business listings, driving directions, the ability for users to create, share, personalise and annotate maps as well as support for Google Maps for mobile.

The company says the new service can be used by businesses who want to provide information about their Web pages to users searching within a local area. Google Maps New Zealand contains comprehensive local business listings from apnfinda Ltd and www.finda.co.nz.

For example, Christchurch residents searching for a mechanic in their neighbourhood can simply enter the keyword [mechanic], plus their suburb into the search field to receive a list of nearby mechanics. Each result is accompanied by a phone number, street address and links to related websites such as those of other mechanic services in the area and further useful information.

New Zealand businesses can also add their listings for free via the Local Business Centre. Companies can easily add or edit information whenever they like, without worrying about dated content or publishing deadlines. Companies don't need a website to add a business listing.

The launch also include news news for advertisers. Google AdWords advertisers can now reach customers searching for businesses, products and services in New Zealand using locally targeted advertisements.

Users will be able to write and read business reviews, embed maps in other websites and more.

"Google Maps New Zealand combines extensive business listings and relevant information from across the web to give New Zealand users a powerful and easy-to-use source to access the vast array of local information they need," said Carl Sjogreen, Group Product Manager, Google Australia & New Zealand. "Google Maps is the ultimate platform for viewing, creating, personalising and sharing local information and we're thrilled to bring it to our New Zealand users."

People who are out and about can also search and find this local information on their mobile phone at www.google.co.nz/gmm. The dynamic mapping feature provides them with a simple way to find location and local business information and then navigate around the map from their mobile device. Google's recently announced My Location technology enables New Zealand users to approximate their location on their mobile phone and view surrounding local businesses.

The web mapping and business directory apnfinda is partnering with Google Inc to facilitate the launch of Google Maps New Zealand. The company is providing Google Maps New Zealand with a comprehensive set of business listings from apnfinda's business-to-consumer sites finda.co.nz , wises.co.nz, ubd.co.nz and apndata.co.nz.