Survey + Spatial NZ Conference 2026: Innovation, Industry Insights and Recognition

Recognising professional service

A highlight of the conference was the presentation of an inaugural Survey + Spatial NZ Mark of Service Award to Cato Bolam Director Michelle Bain, acknowledging her contribution to the surveying and spatial profession.

The award coincided with the conclusion of Michelle’s nine years on the Survey + Spatial NZ Board, marking a significant chapter in her longstanding commitment to the profession.

This recognition comes 24 years after Michelle received the Fulton Bequest Award for Services of a Young Surveyor to the Survey Profession in 2002. Together, these awards reflect her sustained commitment to supporting the profession, its people and its future.

Connecting with the profession

Six Cato Bolam team members attended the conference and technical workshops: Directors Michelle Bain and Mark Parker, Survey Manager Amanda Crawford, Senior Surveyor Rebecca Sinclair, Land Development Manager Jarred Lloyd and Engineering Manager Paul Kleynhans.

The event provided opportunities to connect with industry colleagues and explore the emerging technologies, regulatory developments and economic trends shaping our profession.

Artificial intelligence and emerging technologies

Artificial intelligence, automation and connected digital technologies featured prominently throughout the conference.

Presentations from FIG and Hexagon explored the emerging age of intelligence and how advances in data collection, processing and analysis are transforming surveying and spatial services.

For Cato Bolam, these developments present opportunities to improve efficiency, strengthen collaboration between disciplines and deliver better project outcomes. As technology evolves, professional expertise and judgement remain fundamental.

Advances in surveying and positioning technology

Technical sessions explored developments in Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS), Low Earth Orbit satellites, real-time positioning and the resilience of positioning infrastructure.

Discussions also covered cadastral surveying standards, quality assurance and the evolving survey audit regime, reinforcing the importance of practical checking systems and professional accountability.

Presentations on astronomical observations and new digital tools for traditional surveying techniques were a useful reminder that innovation also builds on established knowledge.

Regulatory change and economic outlook

The conference provided insights into the changing regulatory environment, including land administration and developments affecting the surveying profession.

Economist Tony Alexander also shared perspectives on economic conditions, business confidence and investment trends.

For our clients, understanding these changes is important when considering development feasibility, project timing and investment decisions.

Recognising industry achievements

The conference’s Excellence Awards Dinner brought industry colleagues together to recognise achievements across the profession.

Guest speaker Sir Graham Henry contributed to a memorable evening, which also provided an opportunity to reconnect with colleagues and acknowledge the people contributing to our industry.

Bringing insights back to our clients

Industry conferences provide more than technical updates. They offer opportunities to review established practices, explore new ideas and strengthen professional relationships.

At Cato Bolam, we focus on applying these insights to practical improvements in how we work, from adopting emerging technologies to strengthening project delivery and client communication.