Everything the Coffs Coast has to offer in your pocket – that’s the claim of an unconventional and groundbreaking new app launched in a bid to level up the way locals and visitors discover what’s around them.
After months of development, the Coffs Coast Explorer app has been soft launched at the All One Under the Sun Festival at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden.
Created by City of Coffs Harbour Council and tech firm, Specialist Apps, the software is an on-the-go on-demand guide for foodie and nature experiences, events, heritage and Indigenous stories.
“Whether you’d like to immerse yourself in unique Coffs-pitality, hit the Coffs Switch or Coffs-plore – this app is your VIP entry into the insiders’ circle. It pushes the boundaries in creating a self-curated joyride to unlocking our unmatched environment,” said Council General Manager, Natalia Cowley.
“The app is GPS-enabled and includes augmented reality in its functionality, with a Pokémon Go-like discovery game where you can ‘catch’ some of our native fauna.”
Council says the unique digital tour guide will be appreciated by those chasing “a walk on the wild side”.
It showcases interactive trails which you can hike, cycle or drive and it is the first time the Coramba, Sawtell and Woolgoolga heritage walks have been digitised.
“The superstar Solitary Islands Coastal Walk is also detailed, plus there’s the best of the botanic gardens with audio commentary to guide you on an inner-city green escape,” Ms Cowley said.
The Coffs Coast Explorer includes an interactive map and trip planner – spotlighting places to visit, eat, stay and enjoy such as galleries and major tourist attractions.
“From an untamed adventure to finding a counter lunch at a local gastro pub – the app will show you what’s nearby and how to get there,” Ms Cowley said.
“It’s a portable multi-tool for making your own way around the Coffs Coast.”
The personalised Coffs Coast Explorer will be supplemented by interactive information kiosks being rolled out to seven key locations across the local government area.
“The kiosks and the app put the user in control. They are an on-command genie in the bottle at your fingertips,” Ms Cowley said.
Development of the app is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments in association with Council.
The app can be downloaded free from Google Play and the (Apple) App Store here.
