Frequently asked questions
What coordinate formats do you support?
Decimal Degrees in WSG84 format.
This should look something like: -42.99123, 171.52176
We also support the format Apple Maps provides: 42.98814° S, 171.51073° E
This should look something like: -42.99123, 171.52176
We also support the format Apple Maps provides: 42.98814° S, 171.51073° E
Where do you get your weather data from?
Our weather data comes from Metservice.com
How accurate are your weather reports?
The weather data we use is generated from both the GFS (USA) and ECMWF (EU) weather models. These models are used world-wide by a large number of weather services.
However, these are global weather models and use generalised terrain modelling. So they don't have the resolution to accurately display localised weather patterns.
For a good representation on how accurate these models are, we recommend playing around with the GFS and ECMWF models on windy.com.
Like with all weather reports: DO NOT use this service blindly. Weather reports are frequently wrong, especially in environments as dynamic as New Zealand's. Always use your own best judgement.
However, these are global weather models and use generalised terrain modelling. So they don't have the resolution to accurately display localised weather patterns.
For a good representation on how accurate these models are, we recommend playing around with the GFS and ECMWF models on windy.com.
Like with all weather reports: DO NOT use this service blindly. Weather reports are frequently wrong, especially in environments as dynamic as New Zealand's. Always use your own best judgement.
Will I be charged for texting Remote Weather?
No you won't.
The reason you're warned is because there are two types of short code numbers. Standard and Zero Rated. We use Zero Rated - This is more expensive for us, but makes it free for you to respond.
Your phone doesn't know what type of short code it's about to message - That's why it warns you.
The reason you're warned is because there are two types of short code numbers. Standard and Zero Rated. We use Zero Rated - This is more expensive for us, but makes it free for you to respond.
Your phone doesn't know what type of short code it's about to message - That's why it warns you.
Why haven't I got a response to my message?
Double check that you entered the coordinate correctly.
Check that your initiation message was sent within the last 7 days. If not, re-enter your number on the main page.
There appears to be an issue using Google Maps on iPhone, try using a location from Apple Maps.
If none of those work, there could be a problem on our end. Use the links in the footer to reach out and we'll look into it.
Check that your initiation message was sent within the last 7 days. If not, re-enter your number on the main page.
There appears to be an issue using Google Maps on iPhone, try using a location from Apple Maps.
If none of those work, there could be a problem on our end. Use the links in the footer to reach out and we'll look into it.
How often can I request reports?
As much as you want. But you are limited to 5 reports per week to avoid abuse of the service. Each week your usage will reset. Reset occurs 7 days after you send your first request for that week.
Can I message your number (8233) directly?
Unfortunately, no.
Due to a technical limitation, we must send you a message first. In addition, we can only respond to people who we have sent a message to within the last week. This is why we require people to re-enter their number on the main page every week they want to use the service.
Due to a technical limitation, we must send you a message first. In addition, we can only respond to people who we have sent a message to within the last week. This is why we require people to re-enter their number on the main page every week they want to use the service.
Why can't I get a coordinate from Google Maps?
Google Maps will attempt to convert any point you select into a place name. The easiest way to stop this is by disabling internet access on your phone. Google Maps should have a low-resolution cached map you can use offline.
How can I contact you?
By using the links in the page footer.
I need more than 5 reports per week
For users requiring more than 5 reports per week, get in contact with me and I'll sort something out.