Google has launched a Google Maps New Zealand service at maps.google.co.nz. In addition to map and satellite images, the expanded service includes New Zealand business listings, driving directions, and the ability for New Zealanders to create, share, personalise and annotate maps. Support is also provided for Google Maps for mobile.

Business listings are provided courtesy of a joint venture with New Zealand company apnfinda (finda.co.nz).
You could, for example, search for a mechanic in your neighbourhood by simply entering the keyword [mechanic], plus your 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.

Popular Google Maps applications include:
My Maps, which enable users to quickly and easily create personalised maps and share with friends and family anytime. Users can mark locations on a map from a wide-selection of icons, draw lines and shapes, add text, photos or YouTube videos.
Mapplets, which are mini-applications that enable users to add valuable third-party content directly on Google Maps with a single click. Users can save their customised maps to their personal library. This makes it easy for users to view and integrate different tools and maps, containing information such as distance measurement, hiking trails, events and photos.

People who are out and about can also search for 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.

Check out some sample images of the service here.