Interactive New Zealand overland flow path map

FloodMap.nz Interactive Map BETA

This interactive map is provided by FloodMap.nz (a data product of SAE Ltd) as a general reference tool. By continuing you agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

What this map shows — and what it doesn't

This map shows potential overland flow paths derived from bare-earth LiDAR terrain. It is a screening reference, not a flood prediction. Whether flooding actually occurs at a given location depends on rainfall intensity, soil infiltration, drainage capacity, vegetation and other factors that this map does not model. A flow path on the map does not mean the property floods — and absence of a flow path does not mean the property is safe from flooding.

Beta Status

This map is in beta. All data is currently under review and must not be relied upon for any purpose. Layers, classification and coverage may change or be updated without notice.

No Reliance

This map is for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute professional engineering advice and must not be relied upon for:

• Resource consent or building consent applications
• Property purchase, sale, valuation or investment decisions
• Flood risk assessment, hazard categorisation or insurance purposes
• Design of stormwater infrastructure, earthworks or drainage
• Setting finished floor levels or building platform locations
• Civil defence planning or emergency response

Accuracy Limitations

• Overland flow paths are derived from LiDAR terrain modelling, not field-verified survey
• The model does not account for soil infiltration, antecedent soil moisture, or vegetation interception
• The model does not account for stormwater pipe networks, culverts, or any constructed drainage
• The model does not quantify rainfall, depth, velocity or flood return period — only where surface water would route on bare earth if it flowed at all
• Results may differ from council-published flood hazard maps
• LiDAR surface imperfections may produce artefacts in flat, urban or heavily vegetated areas
• Data vintage varies by region (LINZ surveys 2018–2025, latest available per region) and does not reflect post-survey development or terrain change

Property Representation

The display of a flow path on or near any property is a modelled terrain estimate only. It does not constitute an authoritative flood record, a LIM entry, a title encumbrance, or a finding that a watercourse exists on that land. For authoritative flood information for a specific property, obtain a LIM report from your council. If you believe data shown for your property is incorrect, email info@floodmap.nz.

Limitation of Liability

FloodMap.nz (SAE Ltd) accepts no liability for any loss, damage or cost arising from the use of or reliance on this map — including any property valuation, devaluation, marketability, sale, insurance or financial outcome attributed to information shown or implied by this map. Use is entirely at your own risk. To the maximum extent permitted by New Zealand law, all warranties (express or implied) are excluded.

Professional Advice

The free FloodMap.nz layer is published as general public information. It is not issued as professional engineering advice, is not a certified engineering output, and no engineer-client relationship arises from viewing or using it. Andre Magdich's registration as a Chartered Professional Engineer applies to engineering services commissioned from SAE Ltd, not to this free public layer. For site-specific flood assessment with depth, velocity and hazard outputs (HEC-RAS 2D modelling), engage a qualified professional engineer. SAE Ltd offers these services as bespoke engineering — see /flood-report for what's typically covered, or get in touch.

Data Sources

Terrain data sourced from LINZ Data Service under CC BY 4.0 licence. Land cover from Manaaki Whenua – Landcare Research (LCDB v5) under CC BY 4.0. Base map tiles from OpenStreetMap contributors and LINZ Basemaps.