People have always been driven by curiosity to understand the world around us. These curiosities have actually been key in how our communities and societies have been built into what they are today. 

But who then took these innate ideas and helped bring them to life?  

Well, the truth is many people—explorers, builders, architects, etc. But the often forgotten player is surveyors. 

From the awe-inspiring pyramids of ancient Egypt to the intricate land divisions of the Roman Empire, surveying has played a pivotal role in shaping the course of history. These early surveyors laid the foundation for the bustling cities and thriving communities that define our modern world. 

 So, let’s take a look at just how much we owe to this field.  

 

Early Days of Surveying 

The practice of surveying has ancient roots, with impressive examples scattered throughout history. The Great Pyramid of Giza, constructed around 2700 BC, stands as a testament to the Egyptians’ early proficiency in surveying methods. Its near-perfect square shape reflects a deep understanding of measurement and geometry. 

Recognising the significance of land surveying, the Romans established fundamental measurements that became the backbone of the Roman Empire. During medieval times, communities actively preserved their land boundaries through a tradition known as communal walks. These involved collective processions along the perimeters of their shared land, fostering a connection to the land and ensuring that individuals were familiar with and respected property boundaries. 

Moving forward to 1927, Gutzon Borglum created the Mount Rushmore sculptures. Notably, three of the four presidents honoured—George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Abraham Lincoln—were surveyors.  

George Washington, a county surveyor at just 17, conducted around 200 surveys and mapped 60,000 acres of land. Thomas Jefferson’s surveying background played a crucial role in the expansion of the United States. Similarly, Abraham Lincoln became a surveyor after only six weeks of study, utilising his knowledge in land transactions and local investments. 

 

Building New Zealand 

In the early days, surveyors worked through dense bush to define property boundaries and lay the groundwork for dividing land blocks. 

These tasks were carried out by the process of triangulation, which involves measuring angles to determine the position of a point relative to known fixed points, it was the primary method employed for surveying during this era. 

As surveying activities expanded inland through the mid to late 1800s, each province established its own survey department. Triangulation remained the predominant surveying method, and the need for a unified triangulation system became apparent due to inconsistencies and errors arising from unconnected surveys. 

Over time, surveying has evolved into many components, two of which are: cadastral and geodetic surveying. Cadastral surveying focuses on mapping property boundaries and navigating complex historical land records. Geodetic surveying measures the Earth’s physical features using advanced techniques to enhance our understanding of the world, its shape, and how we fit into it.  

Here, surveyors combined traditional methods with cutting-edge tools to map terrains with unmatched precision. From triangulation measurements to using satellites, GPS, and drones, surveyors play a critical role in building and maintaining New Zealand’s infrastructure and environment. 

Now, surveyors take on multiple roles. Beyond mapping physical features and defining property boundaries, they play a vital role in land development. Surveyors serve as architects of quality neighbourhoods, envisioning and creating spaces where people can live, work, and play for future generations. 

 

 Surveying at CivilPlan 

Our team knows the legacy surveying has left – and we are dedicated to continuing it.  

We believe that surveying is about more than just measurements. It’s about understanding the unique challenges and opportunities of each project and developing innovative solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients. We take a collaborative approach to every project, working closely with our clients to ensure that our surveys and advice are aligned with their overall objectives. 

We are committed to using the latest technology to improve the efficiency and accuracy of our surveys. We employ a wide range of tools and techniques, including: 

  • GPS technology for positioning and data collection. 
  • Robotic Total Stations for when precision matters.  
  • Drones to collect aerial data and imagery. 
  • Advanced software to analyse and process survey data. 

While we may not be constructing the next Great Pyramid of Giza, we are playing a crucial role in shaping the future of our cities and our communities. Our team of experienced surveyors is equipped with the latest technology and a deep understanding of spatial relationships, enabling us to deliver accurate and reliable surveys for a wide range of projects.