Add Elevation Data to GPX Files

Automatically enrich your GPX files with accurate elevation data from New Zealand's LINZ LiDAR dataset. Perfect for hiking tracks, running routes, and cycling paths.

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Upload your GPX file and get it back with complete elevation data in seconds.

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Why Add Elevation to GPX Files?

Many GPS devices and mobile apps create GPX files without accurate elevation data, or the elevation data they include can be unreliable due to GPS signal limitations. Adding high-quality elevation data improves:

  • Route Planning: Accurately calculate elevation gain and loss
  • Fitness Tracking: Get precise calorie burn estimates based on terrain
  • Visualization: Create better elevation profiles and 3D route views
  • Analysis: Identify steep sections and grade percentages

How It Works

NZ Elevation Tools uses LINZ LiDAR data to add or replace elevation values in your GPX file:

  1. Upload: Drop your GPX file into the tool
  2. Processing: Each track point is matched with precise LiDAR elevation data
  3. Download: Get your enhanced GPX file with complete elevation information

Process Your GPX File Now

Fast, accurate, and automatic elevation enrichment for your GPS tracks.

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Supported File Formats

While this guide focuses on GPX files, NZ Elevation Tools also supports:

  • GPX - GPS Exchange Format (waypoints and tracks)
  • KML - Keyhole Markup Language (Google Earth)
  • GeoJSON - Geographic JSON format
  • CSV - Comma-separated values with lat/lon columns

Use Cases

Hiking and Tramping

Add elevation data to tracks from DOC (Department of Conservation) walks, Great Walks, or your own custom hiking routes. Understand the true difficulty of trails by seeing accurate elevation gain.

Mountain Biking

Enrich your mountain bike trails with elevation data to analyze climbs, descents, and technical sections. Perfect for planning rides or sharing routes with friends.

Running and Trail Running

Get accurate elevation profiles for your running routes. Essential for training analysis and understanding the true effort of your workouts.

GPS Track Correction

If your GPS device recorded poor elevation data due to satellite issues or atmospheric conditions, replace it with accurate LiDAR-based elevation values.

Data Quality

The elevation data comes from LINZ LiDAR surveys with typical vertical accuracy of ±0.5 to 1 meter. This is significantly more accurate than barometric altitude from most GPS devices or smartphone apps.

Privacy and Security

Your GPX files are processed securely and are not stored on our servers. Files are processed in real-time and immediately discarded after the enriched version is returned to you.

More Elevation Tools

Explore our complete suite of elevation tools for New Zealand.