While GPS systems and Sat Navs are old news, there’s plenty of room in the market for increased sophistication. The apps of today offer a more complex view of getting around offering traffic avoidance, and voice activation for saftey. You can find apps that tell you when your bus is due, or apps that show you delays, arrivals and departures in real time. There are even apps to facilitate the global game of hide and seek; Geocaching, and apps that link to your fitness band. Here are some of our favourites.
1. Essential New Zealand – free for Apple and Android
If you’re looking at travelling around New Zealand, then this app is a must have. You can get updated info without the need for an Internet connection, on hundreds of travel experiences and activities to suit your preferences, budgets and numbers. Click here for more.
2. AT Transport – free for Apple, Android and Windows
This handy app will have you easily planning your trip to the minute if desired – as you’re able to easily tract where your bus, train or ferry is with the real time board feature, as well as the journey planner and bus stop locator. You can also avoid being at panic station, as you’ll be able to see if you’ve missed your ride, and when the next service will get to you. Click here for more.
3. Geocatching – free for Apple, Android and Windows
Geocaching is quickly becoming the next big popular technology-based spin of a favourite pastime. Use this app to locate a container holding a number of items, which is hidden at a particular location, by finding the coordinates posted. It will see you having fun, problem solving and getting outside with friends!
4. Waze – free for Apple, Android and Windows
Hate filling up on gas somewhere, only to realise a station further down the road was cheaper? Waze is your go-to app for finding the cheapest station in town. It also offers up-to-date navigation services, real-time traffic info and lets you actively and easily report accidents, unforeseen hazards and more in your community. www.waze.com
5. ecoFootprint – free for Apple and Android
Calculate your daily carbon footprint with a multi-functional app from the World Wildlife Fund. Measure your daily energy consumption, the food you eat, and your carbon emissions from commuting activity and travel. You’ll also learn about ways to reduce your footprint and live greener.
