I've used Apple Maps for a while now and haven't noticed any real difference in from when I used to use Google Maps. So for me: Google Maps and Apple Maps are utterly interchangeable.
Same here - Apple Maps in New Zealand works just fine.
When that's the case Apple Maps would be a better choice as it doesn't try to suck all your privacy into its ad ecosystem.
My issue is it lacks a lot of local businesses. No point in using it if I have to go to google to find the business address anyhow.
Yup that's also the issue for me. If I know where I'm going (just not how) it's not a problem. If I'm not sure where I'm going (like trying to find a place for the first time) it can be a problem.
This is the one difference I see too - if it’s a place I know I’ll just go and add them to the map.