Surveyors and spatial scientists measure, model and analyse the world
Nau mai, haere mai ki Te Kura Kairūri
The National School of Surveying plays a key role in the sustainable development of built and natural environments. We produce highly-regarded graduates who develop professional careers in land, engineering and hydrographic surveying, land planning, urban development and geospatial sectors.
The School of Surveying has moved to the Ōwheo Building, 133 Union Street East.
What is Surveying?
Surveyors and spatial scientists are experts in data about Earth's surface.
Study Surveying
Otago offers the only professional surveying programme in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Our research
We conduct world-class research that turns spatial data into solutions.
Our people
We are a close-knit School with a supportive learning and research environment.
Explore what makes Science at Otago so special
It's not just our people – the experts in their fields and passionate students – but also the places we teach and learn: Otago Harbour, Fiordland, Stewart Island, Antarctica and the Pacific that mean our students leave here with highly sought-after skills and experiences.
Latest News
View more news-
11 Dec 2025
New Trimble Technology Lab launched at University of Otago
Global technology company Trimble will provide University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka students with access to cuttin...
-
04 Nov 2025
International Adaptation Futures Conference inspires Otago researchers
Otago researchers recently attended the international Adaptation Futures Conference as the flagship event of the United...
-
17 Oct 2025
Researchers demonstrate centimetre-level positioning using smartwatches
University of Otago – Ōtākou Whakaihu Waka researchers have developed algorithms that improve the precision of location...
-
16 Oct 2025
Measurement Expert: Surveying student’s path to success
When fourth-year School of Surveying student Brayden Foote first heard about surveying, he had no idea what it involved.
-
11 Aug 2025
Sciences recognise staff with continuous service awards
Long-serving staff in the Division of Sciences have been recognised for their dedicated service to the University in the...
-
25 Jun 2025
Smart Ideas projects set to benefit NZ
Otago projects on glowworms, natural hazards, heart attacks and reconstructive surgery have all received funding from th...