The Waikato region has recently received a boost with the release of the first highly accurate 3D mapping data collection. This development is expected to bring about a remarkable change for local councils and the entire community.
Bryan, the technical project lead, emphasised the invaluable role these maps have played in assisting the council in effectively addressing instances of flooding in Coromandel. The availability of such detailed mapping information is poised to revolutionise decision-making processes and enhance disaster response capabilities in the region.
“Right now we have engineering companies using this data to figure out where the landslips are and the volumes of material that has fallen off the side of a cliff,” he said.
Coromandel, situated on the North Island of New Zealand, is renowned for its rugged terrain and susceptible areas prone to debris and slippery surfaces, especially during rainfall. Considering this, travelers are strongly advised to steer clear of the east coast of Coromandel due to the significant flooding experienced by several coastal communities caused by heavy rainfall.
Furthermore, apart from its crucial role in disaster preparedness, this technology also holds immense potential for fostering business growth. The government can now provide comprehensive support to various business requirements at a property level, ensuring consistent coverage across the entire region.
For instance, potential investors interested in acquiring land in the area can use this technology to project and assess the land’s suitability before investing. This capability enables informed decision-making and empowers businesses to make strategic choices aligned with their goals and objectives.
Moreover, this technology empowers the government to make informed projections regarding land suitability for agricultural purposes. By harnessing advanced mapping and analysis, the government can identify areas with optimal soil quality, adequate water availability, and favourable climatic conditions, all crucial factors for successful farming. It enables them to make well-informed decisions regarding selecting the most suitable crops and maximising agricultural productivity.
By accurately projecting the potential of different land areas for farming, the government can support agricultural stakeholders in making informed choices regarding crop selection, irrigation methods, and resource allocation. Farmers and investors can benefit from this information, as it allows them to assess the viability of cultivating specific crops in certain regions, thereby minimising risks and optimising yields.
By using this technology, the Waikato Regional Council will bolster its capabilities in accurately modeling natural hazards and climate change, improving infrastructure design, facilitating more effective land use planning, and ultimately advancing environmental outcomes for the local community in the region.
The council aims to enhance its decision-making processes, enable proactive measures to mitigate risks posed by natural phenomena and promote sustainable development practices that prioritise the well-being of the environment and the community. This technological advancement signifies a notable step forward in the council’s commitment to ensuring the region’s resilient and prosperous future.
At present, 40% of New Zealand’s land area is accessible at no charge online, offering comprehensive coverage. Over 2024, the extent of national coverage is set to increase to 80% of the country’s total land area.
