Track your adventures and dream about future travels with scratch maps – the perfect way to visualise your journey around the world or New Zealand.
Scratch maps have become a beloved way for travellers to track their adventures. These ingenious posters feature a gold or foil layer that you scratch off to reveal vibrant colours beneath – each country, region, or destination you’ve visited becomes a colourful memory on your wall. For Kiwis with wanderlust, scratch maps celebrate past travels while inspiring future adventures.
What Is a Scratch Map?
A scratch map is a poster-sized map covered with a scratchable foil layer, similar to a lottery ticket. When you visit a new place, you scratch off that area to reveal the detailed map beneath. Over time, your scratch map becomes a personalised record of your travels – a visual bucket list that celebrates where you’ve been.
Why Scratch Maps Are Popular
- Visual Memory: See all your travels at a glance
- Goal Setting: Plan future destinations
- Conversation Starter: Share travel stories with visitors
- Stylish Decor: Attractive wall art for any room
- Milestone Marker: Celebrate travel achievements
- Perfect Gift: Ideal for travel-loving friends
Types of Scratch Maps
World Scratch Maps
The classic choice for international travellers. World scratch maps show all countries, often with flags, capitals, or geographic details beneath the foil. Sizes range from A3 desk maps to massive wall displays. Premium versions include US states, Australian states, and detailed European regions.
New Zealand Scratch Maps
For those exploring Aotearoa, NZ-specific scratch maps let you track adventures closer to home. These typically divide the country by regions or include notable landmarks, national parks, and must-visit destinations. Perfect for Kiwis discovering their own backyard.
Specialty Scratch Maps
- Wine Region Maps: For oenophiles tracking vineyard visits
- National Parks Maps: US, NZ, or worldwide park collections
- Bucket List Maps: Pre-printed must-visit destinations
- Running/Cycling Maps: Track marathon or race locations
Gourmet Scratch Posters
Not technically maps, but scratch posters for foodies – track cuisines tried, cocktails sampled, or restaurants visited. These make fun alternatives to traditional travel maps.
Choosing the Right Scratch Map
What to Consider
- Size: A2 or larger for wall display; A3 for desks
- Detail Level: Country-only vs. regions/states
- Design Style: Vintage, modern, minimalist, colourful
- Frame Compatibility: Standard sizes fit frames easily
- Quality: Thick card stock scratches cleanly
- Reveal Design: What’s underneath the foil?
Size Guide
Most scratch maps come in these common sizes:
- A3 (297 x 420mm): Desktop or small wall spaces
- A2 (420 x 594mm): Standard wall poster size
- A1 (594 x 841mm): Large feature wall piece
- XL (800mm+): Statement piece, requires significant wall space
How to Use Your Scratch Map
Scratching Technique
Use a coin (a 20-cent piece works well) or the plastic scratcher often included with maps. Scratch gently at first to test the pressure needed. Work in small sections to keep edges clean. Some people prefer to scratch entire countries; others reveal only specific cities they’ve visited.
Defining “Visited”
What counts as visiting a place? That’s entirely up to you. Some people scratch off anywhere they’ve set foot; others reserve it for meaningful visits where they explored properly. Airport layovers? Your call.
Display Tips
Frame your scratch map to protect it and give it a polished look. Use a frame with glass or acrylic to prevent accidental scratching. Alternatively, mount with removable poster strips for a more casual display. Keep away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
NZ Destinations to Scratch Off
Exploring New Zealand offers endless opportunities for scratch map progress. Here are some must-visit regions and experiences:
North Island Highlights
- Bay of Islands – Stunning coastal scenery and history
- Rotorua – Geothermal wonders and Maori culture
- Hawke’s Bay – Wine country and Art Deco architecture
- Wellington – Capital city culture and cuisine
- Tongariro National Park – Alpine crossing and volcanoes
South Island Highlights
- Abel Tasman – Golden beaches and coastal track
- Queenstown – Adventure capital
- Milford Sound – Fiordland majesty
- Aoraki Mount Cook – NZ’s highest peak
- Dunedin – Scottish heritage and wildlife
Where to Buy Scratch Maps in NZ
Online Retailers
The widest selection is available online. Search for “scratch map NZ” on Mighty Ape, Trade Me, or Amazon NZ. Many international designs ship to New Zealand, though check shipping costs and times.
Gift Shops
Tourist-focused gift shops, museum stores, and airport retailers often stock world and NZ scratch maps. Brands like Moana Road offer NZ-themed travel accessories that pair well with scratch maps.
Stationery Stores
Whitcoulls, Paper Plus, and independent bookshops sometimes carry scratch maps in their gift sections, particularly during Christmas season.
NZ-Specific Options
- NZ Great Walks Map: Track all 10 Great Walks
- Regional NZ Map: Detailed North and South Island
- Kiwi Bucket List: Must-do NZ experiences
Scratch Maps as Gifts
Scratch maps make excellent gifts for travellers, students heading overseas, or anyone with wanderlust. They’re particularly meaningful for milestone events.
Perfect Gift Occasions
- Graduation: For students about to travel or study abroad
- Engagement/Wedding: Track honeymoon and future adventures together
- Birthday: For the travel-obsessed friend
- OE Send-off: Classic Kiwi overseas experience gift
- Retirement: For those planning travel adventures ahead
- Corporate: See our corporate gifts guide
Pair with a travel journal, passport holder, or luggage tag for a themed gift set. For more ideas, see our NZ gifts guide.