When you hang a Tides Out Map on your wall, you're not just displaying art — you're supporting a sustainable story. From the plywood we use to the packaging your map arrives in, we’re committed to crafting beautiful, meaningful art with a light environmental footprint.
Here’s what goes into the making of our handcrafted ocean maps — and why choosing sustainably matters.
🌱 Why Sustainability Is at the Heart of What We Do
We’re a small, New Zealand-based studio that works with the ocean every day. That connection drives our belief that coastal beauty should be preserved, not just celebrated. By using eco-conscious materials and responsible production methods, we ensure our maps honour the landscapes they represent.
🪵 Our Material of Choice: Sustainable Plywood
Our maps are built from FSC-certified plywood, meaning the wood comes from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits.
Why we use plywood:
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Strong and durable — perfect for layered construction
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Minimal waste — cut with precision to reduce offcuts
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Natural grain — adds warmth and organic texture to every piece
Each map contains multiple laser-cut layers, giving it sculptural depth while using just what we need — no more, no less.
Curious how those layers come to life?
👉 See our full process: How We Turn NZ Coastlines into Handcrafted Ocean Maps
🖐️ Handmade in Aotearoa — No Mass Production
Our team assembles every map by hand, here in New Zealand. We don’t outsource overseas or produce in bulk. That means:
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Fewer emissions from freight
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Close quality control
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More care in each piece
And because we make to order, there's no surplus or waste stock — just meaningful art made with intention.
📦 Packaging with Purpose
When it comes to packaging, we choose recyclable and compostable options wherever possible, including:
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Cardboard boxes
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Kraft paper wrapping
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Minimal plastic (only where absolutely needed for protection)
We’re always looking to improve and reduce — and welcome ideas from our community, too.
🧭 Designed to Last
Unlike mass-produced décor, our maps are heirloom-quality. They’re built to last, tell a story, and be handed down. By investing in craftsmanship over trends, you’re choosing a piece that stays relevant, cherished, and out of the landfill.
Thinking about gifting sustainably?
👉 Explore our full range of handcrafted ocean maps
🌊 Sustainability as a Story
We believe that sustainability is part of the story we’re telling — not just a label. Our customers care about protecting the coasts they love, and our work reflects that shared value.
Want to personalise a piece made from sustainable materials?
👉 Start your bespoke design here
One Planet, One Coastline
Our goal is to honour the natural beauty of New Zealand — not just through design, but through conscious craftsmanship. When you purchase from Tides Out Maps, you’re not just supporting local — you’re supporting sustainable art that respects the land and sea it comes from.