Specialist geological modelling, resource estimation and exploration support for New Zealand’s mineral exploration sector – from early-stage targeting and drill programme design through to JORC (2012) resource reporting.
Led by a geologist with more than 25 years across exploration, open-pit and underground mining in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.
Capabilities
Resource estimation & geostatistics
Compositing, top-cut/capping strategy, variography, boundary analysis, grade estimation and block-model reporting – plus estimation review/audit and competent-person-level support for JORC (2012) resource statements on select gold deposit styles.
3D geological modelling
Implicit and explicit models built in Leapfrog from drillhole, surface and geophysical data – domain volumes, structural interpretation, cross and long sections.
Exploration support & drill programme design
Target generation, programme design and costing, collar and trajectory planning, logging and sampling systems, data validation and QA/QC.
Experience
- Resource estimation and geological modelling for multiple ASX-listed exploration companies.
- Active exploration across multiple gold prospects in Central Otago and the South Island.
- More than 25 years in the resources industry, beginning in the field as a junior geologist at St Ives Gold (Kambalda, WA) in 1998.
- Former Open Pit Geology Superintendent, Porgera Gold Mine (PNG); Chief Geologist, Bootu Creek Manganese Mine (NT).
- Member, AusIMM (M AusIMM).
Trust
- Client confidentiality is assured on all engagements.
- Branch Consulting holds professional indemnity insurance.
- Capability statement available on request.
Clients & Associates
Branch Consulting works with junior and mid-tier explorers and industry specialists, including:
MEX (Minerals Exploration) and Niuminco are clients and project companies; Wairiri Consulting is a close associate on exploration, permitting and field programmes. Project details remain confidential.
Modern, AI-assisted workflows
We use AI and automation where it genuinely helps – compiling and searching historic reports, cross-checking and validating project data, and drafting and QA-checking technical documentation. It doesn’t replace geological judgement; it removes the grind and leaves more time for interpretation and decisions.