There are more similarities than differences between most New Zealand towns. This common landscape is a product of society interacting with the land. The nature of the common landscape reflects the nature of society. As well as being a concrete, three-dimensional phenomenon, the common landscape is imbued with significance and meanings which are unconsciously understood by its everyday inhabitants; meanings which serve to remind and to define the order of society for its members. By understanding the common landscape as a participant, designers can begin to consciously participate in this dialogue. This study is based upon Cambridge, New Zealand, but its concern is with the typical landscape rather than with the unusual. A common landscape which occurs time and again in towns throughout New Zealand.