Open Earth Consulting is owned and operated by Chris Lee and Paul Herbert. Both Chris and Paul have extensive knowledge relating to the development and extraction of in-ground resources and planning, development and construction of infrastructure assets. OEC's capability and expertise is primarily related to the identification and management of geological, geotechnical and engineering challenges that are present in the establishment and sustainable operation of all mines, quarries and tunnels.
With our complementary skills and experience and the application of the latest technologies and tools, OEC present a pragmatic approach to striking the fine balance the balance required between satisfying regulatory obligations, controlling costs, maximising value and minimising risk to ensure safety and sustainability.
Chris Lee
Principal Geotechnical Engineer
BSc (Geology), PGDip (Engineering Geology), PGDip (Coal Mine Strata Control)
Chris has over 20 years professional experience in the New Zealand mining industry. Starting out in exploration he soon moved to operational support filling positions as Senior Geologist and Senior Geotechnical Engineer and Mining Engineer. Chris has significant experience providing geological, geotechnical and mining engineering services to opencast mines and quarries and is one of New Zealand's foremost experts in underground strata control. He is results-oriented, a decisive leader with proven success in identifying and managing critical risks to ensure safety and sustainability. He thrives in the dynamic resources industry and with his technical versatility combined with a pragmatic and focused approach to risk management, has the capability to add value across all facets of the resource development and extraction cycle with unique expertise in underground geotechnical risk management and tunneling.
Paul Herbert
Principal Geologist
BSc(Tech) (Earth Science)
AusIMM Member, Geological Society Member
Paul has over 10 years experience in the New Zealand and Australian mining and exploration industries. Starting out in exploration and project geology, Paul has filled roles in operational support and project development, reporting resources as Competent Person for numerous coal deposits throughout New Zealand. Paul has developed a strong skill set in geological interpretation and 3D geological modelling, and has added value to both opencast and underground projects and operations through the application of these skills. Paul is a practically mined technician with the ability to visualise complex problems and the experience and skill set to develop simple solutions to ensure safe and sustainable development and operation of key assetts.
