 In 1851 , the New Zealand Company was still struggling financially and eventually transferred its land to the New Zealand Government . Brunner 's employment with the company ceased and he , after writing a letter soliciting for surveying work , was appointed the Government Surveyor with an annual salary of ₤ 100 ( 2014 approximation ₤ 8 @,@ 000 ) . This was still a low salary for a professional and Brunner was allowed to continue with his architectural commissions , working from an office he had purchased in Nelson . He was kept busy for the next several years ; in addition to carrying out and supervising survey work in the area , he took on responsibility for some public works . He drew up plans for roading , bridges and botanical gardens . 
