About Us
GCL is an engineering consultancy
serving the residential, commercial and land development sectors
in the Auckland, Waikato, Tauranga and Queenstown Lakes Regions
We have the relevant experience
to deliver on your project
Our Team
explore our team of experts
Fraser Walsh
Founding Director
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We remember Fraser Walsh as the Founding Director of Ground Consulting. Employed as an engineering geologist for the last 18 years, Fraser dedicated himself to a wide array of geotechnical engineering projects across the Auckland, Waikato, Coromandel and Otago regions. His work primarily focused on residential, commercial, and infrastructure developments, showcasing his extensive site investigation and reporting expertise.
Fraser possessed an intimate knowledge of Auckland, Waikato and Otago soil types and a profound understanding of the geology in Tauranga and the wider Bay of Plenty. Beyond traditional geotechnical consultancy, he expanded his services to include designs for stormwater management and effluent disposal, particularly for subdivisions and rural properties. Fraser's adeptness in navigating regulatory requirements for building consent was evident in his successful execution of projects.
Fraser played a pivotal role in the growth and driving force behind Ground Consulting. His ability to cultivate strong relationships with councils, local contractors, builders, and other engineering consultancies was instrumental in the company's success.
Outside of his professional commitments, Fraser treasured moments shared with his family on Great Barrier Island, savouring the tranquillity and pursuing his love for kayak and spearfishing. Additionally, he found joy in sailing across the Hauraki Gulf and exploring the islands from a maritime perspective. Fraser Walsh made a lasting impression in his professional endeavours and personal passions, fondly remembered by those fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him.
Anna Walsh
Director
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Anna brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and a strong commitment to continuing the legacy of her husband and founding Director, Fraser, as she steps into her role as the Director of Ground Consulting.
With a passion for the GCL team and geology, she is poised to lead the organisation into a new era of impact and growth. Anna had key leadership roles in previous organisations before assuming her current position with GCL, cultivating a profound understanding of Auckland, Waikato, and Coromandel region’s geology through hands-on experience and commitment to continuous learning.
As Director, Anna places significance on fostering strong teamwork dynamics, prioritising professional growth, demonstrating adept problem-solving skills, and ensuring client satisfaction. Anna is excited to embark on this journey as the Director at Ground Consulting and looks forward to working closely with the dedicated team and supporters while continuing to honour the memory of Fraser.
In her spare time, Anna enjoys spending time with her family on Great Barrier, which provides her with the relaxation and inspiration she brings to her leadership role.
Luke Kennedy
Senior Engineering Geologist
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Luke is employed as GCL's Senior Engineering Geologist, having 8+ years of experience in geotechnical engineering consultancy covering a wide variety of projects throughout the Auckland, Waikato and Coromandel regions in particular. Luke also provides senior support to GCL's Queenstown based office, having exposure to a wide range of geologies and geotechnical solutions across New Zealand.
Luke provides senior oversight, technical analysis and reporting expertise to GCL's wide range of project types ranging from small to large residential developments, commercial and industrial type buildings, and roading infrastructure. In addition to extensive Geotechnical experience, Luke has equal experience in the preparation and completion of detailed wastewater and stormwater management designs, ensuring compliance with national standards and regional Council planning rules.
Outside of work, Luke enjoys pursuing his passion for exploration through hiking and boating activities, immersing himself in literature, and weekend BBQs with family and friends.
Kevin Hiha
Senior Engineering Geologist
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Kevin is a senior Engineering Geologist (CMEngNZ, PEngGeol) based in Auckland. He manages a variety of medium to large-scale residential, commercial and industrial projects from a geotechnical standpoint. These include industrial warehouses, multi-storey residential apartments, and residential subdivisions. He has a broad range of geological knowledge throughout New Zealand, with experience in identifying and mitigating natural hazards and creating realistic ground models with accurate geological mapping and interpretation. He can fill various roles within a project team, from project manager to technical support and geotechnical lead. Kevin is also experienced in stormwater and wastewater design, with a range of experience through residential and subdivision developments.
“The best part about working for Ground Consulting Limited is the culture and the people. My colleagues are a second family to me, and the positive, supportive environment makes it a pleasure to come to work every day. Further, it is humbling to be associated with such intelligent, resourceful people passionate about their jobs”.
Outside of work, Kevin enjoys sports (surfing, touch, running), socialising, gardening, cooking and the outdoors.
Will van der Oest
Engineering Geologist
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Will is employed as an engineering geologist and discovered his passion for geology after completing his formal engineering education. He is deeply interested in understanding the geological processes that have shaped our planet and continue to influence it today.
Currently, Will is in the final stages of his formal tertiary geology study and has been working in the geotechnical industry for the past three years. His main responsibilities involve construction monitoring, where he observes, tests, and ensures that the geotechnical aspects of a project align with design specifications and progress as planned.
He's skilled at assessing a site's geology, including its geological features, geomorphology, and soil composition. Additionally, he dedicates time to writing geotechnical reports and conducting site
investigations, both crucial for project planning and execution.
Outside of work, Will enjoys collecting fossils and exploring rock outcrops, which allow him to peer into the Earth's past through the lens of geology. He also enjoys building and operating radio-controlled aircraft during his free time, reflecting his passion for engineering and hands-on activities.
Lloyd Simmons
Engineering Geologist
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Lloyd is employed as an Engineering Geologist at GCL. Lloyd specialised in Engineering Geology after completing his Bachelor of Science in Earth Sciences, and then completing a master's in Engineering Geology; in which he conducted a study of a large landslide located in Port Waikato.
Lloyd's role at GCL is to conduct in-field investigations, site mapping of geomorphological surface features, and identify slope instabilities. Lloyd will then analyse this in-field data to provide conclusions about the building platform stability, ground settlement, liquefaction potential, and bearing capacities.
In his spare time Lloyd enjoys reading books about history, watching football, and going for hikes.
Daniel Logan
Field technician
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Daniel is one of Ground Consulting's dedicated Field Technicians who brings his expertise and enthusiasm to the job. While pursuing his Bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering, he works part-time with us, demonstrating his passion for hands-on experience in the field. Daniel's love for tackling various on-site challenges and providing exceptional service is truly commendable.
When he's not in the field, you'll find Daniel playing his electric guitar, listening to music, or hitting the gym with his friends.
Melissa Brownlee
Office Administrator
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Melissa is employed as GCL’s Office Administrator, the friendly face behind the scenes who keeps things running smoothly. With a Certificate III in Business and over 15 years combined experience in administration and management, Melissa is here to ensure that everything in the GCL office operates like a well-oiled machine.
Melissa is the main point of contact for all your inquiries. Whether you’re a valued client or one of our dedicated engineers, she makes sure you get the support you need. Melissa coordinates schedules, assignments, and ensures the team is where they need to be, doing what they do best – solving geotechnical challenges. She is passionate about organization and efficiency and that every client receives the attention they deserve.
When Melissa isn’t in the office ensuring you have a well-structured and smooth experience, you can find her immersed in a good book, enjoying wakeboarding, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Helen Green
Office Administrator
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Helen is employed as GCL's Office Administrator based at our Pukekohe office, with over 25 years of invaluable experience in administrative roles, Helen brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. Having previously worked within the building consent council in Papakura, she possesses a deep understanding of the industry that is unmatched.
Helen thrives on client interaction and takes great pride in providing exceptional service. Her passion for working with people shines through in every interaction, ensuring that our clients receive the utmost care and attention.
Outside of the office, you'll find Helen enjoying her favorite pastimes. Whether she's fishing, gardening, or playing the role of dedicated taxi service for her daughter.
Tyler Williams
Engineering Geologist
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Tyler is employed as an Engineering Geologist at GCL. Tyler graduated from the University of Tasmania with Honours in Geology and Geophysics (BSc Hons). Formerly working in the underground mining and exploration industry in Australia. Tyler made the move across the ditch in pursuit of a lifestyle change and a better work/life balance.
Tyler’s role at GCL is conducting field investigations, site mapping and earthworks/construction monitoring and identifying slope instabilities. Tyler will then analyse this in-field data to provide conclusions about the building platform stability, ground settlement, and bearing capacities.
In his spare time Tyler enjoys downhill mountain biking, surfing, hiking, and running.
Shannon Fitzgerald
Engineering Geologist
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