The New Zealand Atlas

Summary

The New Zealand Atlas, initiated in 1937 as part of the National Centennial publications, was interrupted by World War II and subsequently postponed due to post-war manpower shortages. In 1953, an Advisory Committee was established to reassess the project, leading to Cabinet approval in June 1954 of a revised plan: abandoning the original concept, depositing research materials at the Alexander Turnbull Library, and tasking the Lands and Survey Department with producing a reference atlas alongside occasional historical maps. Scheduled for publication by end of 1958, the atlas comprises 176 pages (10x12 inches each), including letterpress descriptions, colour maps, a gazetteer of approximately 10,000 place names, and oblique aerial photographs. Designed as a concise reference for schools, libraries, commercial offices, and government agencies, its map section, compiled by three full-time draughtsmen since 1954, aims to match international standards through close collaboration with the Government Printer.