Behind every handcrafted ocean map lies a process that blends science, storytelling, and design. At Tides Out Maps, we turn raw geographic data into custom-made wooden artworks that celebrate New Zealand’s iconic coastlines — and your personal connection to them.
Here’s how we take your favourite coastal spot and turn it into a bespoke depth map, crafted just for you.
🧭 Step 1: Gathering the Bathymetric Data
Every custom map begins with bathymetry — the study and mapping of underwater terrain. We use reliable sources like Land Information New Zealand (LINZ) and international hydrographic datasets to find depth contours for your chosen location.
Curious about what bathymetry actually is?
👉 Read our guide: What Is Bathymetry and Why It Matters in Art
This data shows the seafloor's shape, including underwater slopes, sandbars, reefs, and channels — the kinds of details that give every coastal area its unique character.
🖥️ Step 2: Cleaning & Simplifying the Map
Once the data is collected, we prepare it for design:
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We filter out unnecessary clutter while preserving the natural flow of the coastline.
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We convert the depth lines into clean, vector-based contours that are ready for laser cutting.
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We carefully adjust the layout to ensure it fits your preferred size and orientation — vertical, horizontal, square, or panoramic.
Each contour is assigned a depth level, allowing us to create a layered map where every piece of wood represents a different depth of the ocean.
🖌️ Step 3: Adding Meaningful Design Elements
This is where the magic happens — and where your story comes in.
We’ll work with you to personalise your map with:
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Location names or custom labels
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A heart, compass, or anchor symbol marking a special spot
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Engraved names, dates, or short messages that mean something to you
Whether it’s a favourite fishing bay, the beach where you got engaged, or your family’s summer hideaway, your input helps turn our design into your story.
🔥 Step 4: Laser Cutting & Layering the Map
Now the design comes to life. We use a high-precision laser cutter to carve each layer of the ocean from quality plywood.
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Each depth level becomes a separate layer
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The layers are stacked to build a 3D effect
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Fine details like islands and headlands are carefully captured
This process blends science-grade data with craftsmanship, producing a tactile artwork that feels as good as it looks.
🖼️ Step 5: Assembly, Framing & Final Touches
Once the pieces are cut, we assemble each map by hand in our New Zealand workshop. Each one is glued, aligned, and checked for quality. You can choose from multiple frame finishes and sizes, or request something custom.
Want to see how our full process works from start to finish?
👉 How We Turn NZ Coastlines into Handcrafted Ocean Maps
✨ Bonus: Making It Truly Yours
Custom maps allow you to:
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Celebrate a boating memory
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Commemorate a family holiday
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Gift something that says, “I saw this and thought of you.”
Every bespoke addition — a date, a message, a mark on the map — adds heart to the precision of our craft.
🌊 Ready to create your own one-of-a-kind map?
👉 Start your custom design here
Why It Matters
At the heart of what we do is this simple idea: places matter. Whether it’s the waters you grew up swimming in, the coastline you explored with your dad, or a bay that stole your heart — our maps are built to help you hold on to those places forever.
And it all begins with data, transformed by design.