Consulting Surveyors New Zealand (CSNZ) was established as a division within NZIS (New Zealand Institute of Surveyors) in 1973. Its purpose was to represent the specific interests of NZIS members who worked as private practice consultants. Initially, membership was limited to principals and partners of surveying firms but later expanded to include branch and divisional managers of larger firms.
After its formation, CSNZ identified a lack of specialized risk management products for professional surveying practices. CSNZ members conducted consultations with practitioners across the country and, in collaboration with the broking firm Adam and Adam, established Land Professionals Mutual Society (LPMS) in 1976. LPMS created the first professional indemnity insurance policy specifically tailored for surveyors. Rob Sowry became the inaugural Chairman of LPMS and gained renown for his risk management presentations at the annual Consultants Workshop weekend.
Over the years, LPMS expanded its membership to include valuers and other related land professionals. Today, LPMS caters to the risk management needs of land surveyors, valuers, quantity surveyors, property managers, farm management consultants, and planners.
It’s important to note that LPMS is not an insurance company but a risk management organization that facilitates risk management policies on behalf of its members. However, there is a significant connection between LPMS, S+SNZ, and CSNZ as more than 50% of LPMS members also belong to CSNZ.