Meet the team
Director / Senior Geophysicist
Mike is a leading expert in geophysics, with over 35 years experience in both fieldwork and research. He holds a BSc in Microelectronics and Engineering Physics (1989), an MSc in Exploration Geophysics (1997) and a PhD in Geology (2004).
Mike's career has taken him to Europe, North America, Antarctica and throughout New Zealand involving a wide range of geophysical investigations in diverse environments.
In 2003, he founded Southern Geophysical, a company that brings together deep academic expertise and hands-on experience that provides high quality, tailored geophysical solutions
Finance and Office Manager
Health and Safety Manager
Read more about Vanessa
Vanessa brings a diverse and valuable skill set to our team, from a strong background in office administration and financial management.
She earned her Bachelor of Business Studies from Massey University in 2003 and is a certified Xero advisor.
Her extensive experience ensures the smooth day-to-day functioning of our office and the effective management of our financial processes.
Team Leader
Geophysicist
Read more about Richard
Richard holds a Bachelor of Science in Geology from the University of Canterbury (2014) and later completed a Master of Science in Geology.
Approaching a decade of work as a geophysicist, he focuses on the various Electromagnetic (EM) methods specialising in Electrical Resistivity Testing (ERT/IP), Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and ground conductivity. As a senior member of the team,
Richard has extensive experience managing and contributing to a wide range of projects, including dam investigations, mineral exploration, bedrock profiling and sink hole mapping for wind farms to list a few.
His technical capabilities include survey design, multi-method integration, and delivering geophysical solutions tailored to complex geological and engineering environments.
Team Leader
Geophysicist
Read more about Jack
Jack holds a Bachelor of Science, double majoring in Geology and Geography, from the University of Canterbury (2019).
He is a senior member of the team who specialises in Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), non-destructive testing (NDT), and near-surface seismic methods for subsurface investigation and structural assessment.
Jack has managed and led a wide range of geophysical projects including cemetery mapping, seismic assessments, and some of New Zealand's large scale infrastructure developments. His field experience and technical expertise enable him to deliver reliable data and effective project outcomes in varied and often complex environments.
Senior Geophysicist
Read more about Travis
Travis received his BSc in Geology from the University of Canterbury in 2013, followed by a Postgraduate Diploma in Engineering Geology.
He has over 10 years geophysical experience working throughout NZ, Australia and the Pacific. His expertise spans a broad range of projects from seismic investigations to large-scale mining operations.
Travis brings a practical, solution-focused approach to every project, combining strong technical knowledge with hands-on field experience.
NDT Specialist
Read more about Tim
Tim holds a Bachelor of Science in Physics from the University of Canterbury (2020).
He specialises in non-destructive testing (NDT), vibration monitoring, and concrete scanning across a range of sites for a variety of infrastructure and construction sites, including long-term construction projects. Tim has performed over 1,000 actual pile tests and provided numerous noise and vibration monitoring solutions across New Zealand.
He brings a strong interest in the practical application of physical science to his role, contributing to the delivery of precise and reliable field data.
Geophysical Engineer
Read more about Jessica
Jessica received a BEng (hons) in Mechanical Engineering in 2024 from the University of Canterbury, and is in the final stages of completing a Masters of Mechanical Engineering.
Jessica’s geophysical experience includes surveying the McMurdo Ice Shelf in Antarctica using ground penetrating radar, transient electromagnetics, seismic reflection, GNSS stations, and downhole instruments including the ice sampling tools she developed for her Masters research.
Geophysics Technician
Read more about Nathalia
Nathalia holds a BSc in Geophysics from Universidade Federal do Pampa in Brazil.
She specialises in the acquisition and analysis of Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) and seismic data. Nathalia has contributed to a wide range of projects, including large-scale concrete scanning, cemetery investigations, and wind farm developments.
Warehouse Manager
Read more about Mike
Mike leads the development and improvement of inhouse geophysical equipment. He also maintains the large pool of resources Southern Geophysical owns to ensure optimal data collection in the field.
Mike brings a broad range of skills and extensive experience gained over a long career in technical roles. His technical expertise and practical approach are instrumental in supporting the efficiency and reliability of our operations.
Health and Safety Rep,
Office Administrator
Read more about Clara
Clara supports the team as the Health and Safety Representative and Office Administrator, playing a key role in maintaining a safe, compliant and well-organised workplace.
She holds a Post Graduate Diploma of Education and Teaching from the University of Otago. She is passionate about te reo Māori and bicultural understanding, completing Te Ahu o Te Reo Māori certification up to level 5.
Our Partners
Consultant
Senior Geophysicist
Read more about Christian
Christian has a BSc and MSc in Geology from the University of Canterbury and worked for Southern Geophysical for more than 12 years specialising in seismic methods. He now consults for Southern Geophysical, if required. He enjoys the fact that working as a geophysicist demands the constant application of scientific problem-solving in dynamic and unique environments.
Geologist
Exploration Manager
Read more about Dean
Dean Fergusson has over 35 years of experience in mineral exploration, projects and mining operations throughout New Zealand. By partnering with Dean, Southern Geophysical has access to his wealth of practical mining experience.
He has a BSc and MSc (hons) in Earth Science from University of Waikato. He is a long-term member of AusIMM and is a chartered professional geologist. He successfully implemented and managed multiple, high-resolution 3D seismic reflection surveys in NZ’s highly-structured coal basins, developing work-flows to map, model and risk assess geological hazards in mine feasibility and operational planning.
He is highly conversant with wireline logging techniques and data interpretation and the applied use of GPR for site investigations. Dean brings a wealth of project management experience and knows first-hand how to successfully apply geophysical techniques in mining and geotechnical end uses.
Interested in joining our team?
We value, appreciate, and develop our staff which is why our
senior team have been with us for many years.
If you have a Bachelor of Science in Geophysics and/or similar experience,
please get in touch by emailing us a copy of your resume.
How can we help?
If you would like to know what we can do to help you, please fill in the contact form below.
