ArcGIS REST services
Many councils, DOC, Esri Living Atlas and other publishers expose data through ArcGIS REST. LINZ also publishes selected key datasets this way for easier use in Esri products.
FeatureServer
A FeatureServer normally exposes queryable vector features. A layer endpoint can report:
- geometry type
- CRS
- field definitions
- maximum record count
- supported query formats
- editing capability
- service description and copyright text
Inspect that REST metadata before assuming field names from an old tutorial.
MapServer
A MapServer primarily serves rendered map layers, although some sublayers can also support feature queries. Check the layer's capabilities.
Stable research pattern
- open the service root
- choose the exact layer number
- read description/copyright/fields
- note service/item update date where exposed
- connect using the service URL in GIS
- export a dated local copy if reproducibility matters
LINZ
LINZ states that a collection of key datasets is available through ArcGIS REST. Use the current LDS API chooser rather than copying a historic endpoint list.
For Esri workflows see ArcGIS for Māori organisations.
Last reviewed: 26 August 2026