Clark Fortune McDonald is a locally owned company which has a continuous connection back to an Otago/Southland surveying practice established in 1898.
Who are we
Clark Fortune McDonald has highly qualified staff experienced in all facets of cadastral land surveying and land development and administration. We are conversant with legislation relating to land surveying, resource management and general property issues.
The Queenstown Team
NEIL MCDONALD - B.Sc (Surv) Otago (1977) Registered Surveyor 1978
Consultant
Neil is experienced in all facets of urban and cadastral surveying and administration. Neil has held an annual practicing certificate for over 30 years. Neil’s extensive work experience covers various development projects including large greenfield type residential developments, rural residential developments, apartment and commercial developments, resort developments, horticulture and resort developments, mining and quarrying activities, and tourism associated activities. All of these projects have required project management and administration, coordination of various disciplines, consultation and negotiation, project planning and design. Neil also has specialist skills in data and resource collection, including topographical data, aerial photographs, land ownership information and hazards records etc.
CHRIS HANSEN – B.Surv Otago (1998) MS+SNZ MCSNZ
Licensed Surveyor / Director
Chris joined Clark Fortune McDonald in 1998 as a graduate surveyor. After three years experience Chris completed his registration as a Surveyor Shortly after registration Chris worked abroad gaining overseas experience as a Land Surveyor and Site Engineer in Canada and the United Kingdom respectively. On his return in 2004 Chris took up the position as Survey Manager of Clark Fortune McDonald. Chris has developed a wide range of skills in all aspects of Land Development. In this time Chris has been involved in many large scale land development projects
HAYDEN KNIGHT – B.Surv Otago (1998) MS+SNZ MCSNZ
Licensed Surveyor / Director
Hayden has been a member of Clark Fortune McDonald since 2006. After completing his surveying degree at the University of Otago, Hayden moved to Northland where he gained work experience becoming a registered surveyor in 2002. Shortly after becoming registered he moved to London where he worked as a Site Engineer on several large construction projects throughout the city. In 2006 Hayden moved back to New Zealand and took up a position as a Licensed Surveyor with Clark Fortune McDonald in Queenstown. Since commencing work as a graduate surveyor in 1999 Hayden has obtained a wide range of skills in all aspects of the land development process while being involved in a variety of both very large to small developments.
NICK GEDDES - BSc Geog. Grad Dip EnvSci
Senior Resource Management Planner - Manager
Nick holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geography and a Graduate Diploma in Environmental Science. He graduated from Otago University in 1999 and began his working career in Queenstown as a planning consultant. In 2001 he was employed by Auckland City Council as a senior planner until he travelled to the United Kingdom in 2005. In London Nick worked within Borough Councils as a consents planner before returning to Queenstown in 2008 to resume his role as a planning consultant. During his time working in local government and private practice Nick has been involved in a wide range of developments, resource consent preparation, development of bylaw policy and administration, district and regional plan policy development and the preparation and presentation of expert evidence at Council Hearings and Environment Court. Nick’s work experience traverses both the urban and rural environments. His core work is centred round subdivision and land use consent preparation as it relates to land development in the Queenstown Lakes District. However, Nick has prepared and successfully obtained consents relating to; Coastal Marine Areas, Department of Conservation and New Zealand Historic Places Trust concessions, Crown Minerals, Licences to occupy, Utility provisions, Notices of Requirement, Outline Plans, National Environmental Standards, Regional Air and Water Permits. While a majority of Nick’s work is based in the Queenstown Lakes District he has prepared consent applications and plan changes within a number of other Districts including; Selwyn, Christchurch, Dunedin, Invercargill, Auckland, Tauranga and Westland
EMMA DIXON – BSc (Land Planning and Development) Otago (2005)
Senior Resource Management Planner
Emma holds a Bachelor of Science majoring in Land Planning and Development. Emma joined Clark Fortune McDonald and Associates in January 2006 as a graduate from Otago University. Since then Emma has gained valuable and extensive experience in resource management planning, engineering and project management from working on projects such as Jacks Point, Millbrook, North Lake and a number of other smaller scale urban and rural developments within the wider Wakatipu and Wanaka regions. Emma is capable of seeing your project through from early concept to completion.
ROY BUCHANAN – B.Surv (dist) Otago (2008) MS+SNZ MCSNZ
Licensed Surveyor
Roy joined Clark Fortune McDonald in 2008 as a graduate and has since gained valuable experience working in land development projects in the Central Otago / Queenstown Lakes districts, as well as some time working on major multi billion-dollar construction projects abroad. Today Roy’s primary focus is Land Development Engineering. He specialises in finding solutions for challenging sites, particularly those with steep topography. He is an expert in earthworks & roading geometric design as well as 3 waters infrastructure, contract administration & supervision. In addition, Roy is a Licenced Cadastral Surveyor so still does the odd cadastral survey. Roy is based out of Cromwell three days a week so is well placed to assist with any Central Otago Projects.
EDDIE MURRAY – B.Surv Otago (2003) MS+SNZ MCSNZ
Licensed Surveyor
Eddie is a highly experienced land surveyor and land development professional who graduated from Otago University. He has worked on various projects worldwide in New Zealand, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom. He joined Clark Fortune McDonald in 2013, where he is currently a project manager based in Queenstown. Eddie takes a unique approach to complex projects, using a blend of technical and strategic skills to find innovative, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions tailored to each client's needs. He is an advanced designer and communicator with an easy-going interpersonal style that allows him to engage effectively with clients to achieve superior project solutions and outcomes. Eddie is a consultant member of Survey + Spatial NZ and a Licensed Surveyor, attesting to his high level of professionalism and attention to detail. Additionally, he plays a key role in business development at Clark Fortune McDonald, contributing significantly to the company's strategy, growth and ongoing success.
MELISSA READ – B.Com, Dip. Grad, Chartered Accountant
Office Manager
After twenty-something years of working as a Chartered Accountant, Melissa decided to mix things up a bit and she currently works part-time taking care of Clark Fortune’s administration. You’ll find her at our Queenstown office reception Monday to Thursday.
RUPERT GARDINER
Senior Survey Technician
Rupert is a Senior Survey Technician and has been working for CFMA since 2005. He has worked on a variety of projects from ski field development to rural subdivisions and everything in between. He grew up in the Wakatipu Basin and is a keen back country skier, mountaineer and a trained Mountain Guide. He also volunteers as team coordinator and leader for the Queenstown Alpine Cliff Rescue team.
BEN ROBIE – B.Surv Maine USA (2012)
Surveyor & Certified Drone Pilot
Ben is a highly skilled surveyor and drone specialist with extensive experience in a wide range of projects. He graduated from the University of Maine in the United States with a Bachelor's degree in Survey Engineering Technology in 2012. After working in surveying in Maine from 2013-14, Ben joined our team in 2016. Since then, he has been involved in many large-scale projects, including subdivisions, golf courses, and ski fields, as well as smaller projects such as general set out, redefinition surveys, and topographical surveys.
Ben's expertise as a CAA Certified Drone Pilot and skilled Pix4d user makes him an invaluable member of our team. He specializes in producing both 3D models and orthometric photos, which have been instrumental in accurately mapping and modeling various terrains and landscapes. With his keen eye for detail and dedication to delivering quality work, Ben ensures that every project he works on is completed to the highest standards.
BEN MCLEOD – B.Surv Otago (2018) AS+SNZ
Surveyor
Ben finished his Bachelor of Surveying degree at the University of Otago in 2017. As a student Ben gained surveying experience in Cromwell, with projects including road construction and vineyard development. Ben also worked in Sydney completing engineering set out on large high rise construction projects. Since Graduating Ben has joined the team in Queenstown as a Graduate Surveyor. Ben has been involved in various projects including topographical surveys, construction set out, small and large scale LT Subdivisions and redefinition surveys. Ben is excited to develop his skills and work towards becoming a Licenced Cadastral Surveyor.
KAREN PAGE – BSc PGDip Resource Studies
Surveyor
Karen is currently contracted to Clark Fortune McDonald. Karen holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Geography and a Post Graduate Diploma in Resource Studies. Karen has over 15 years experience as a Resource Management Planner. Karen has considerable experience in subdivision and land use development with wide spread knowledge of the Queenstown area. Her experience includes residential, rural and resort development, commercial, recreational, industrial and mining activities.
SAM LEES – B.Surv Otago (2013) MS+SNZ
Licensed Surveyor
Sam completed his Bachelor of Surveying at Otago University in 2013. He then ventured overseas working in Boston for a year on projects like the Millennium Tower. On his return to NZ he worked as a guide on the Routeburn and Greenstone tracks before being drawn back to surveying. Sam has been with CFMA since 2016, mixing work in with adventures like walking the Te Araroa and road tripping through Mexico. Sam has been involved in topographical surveys, construction set-out and large-scale developments such as Millbrook and Koko Ridge, with a focus on detailed civil design. Outside of work Sam enjoys time in the mountains tramping, paragliding, climbing, mountain biking and back country skiing.
LACHLAN McNIE – B.Surv Otago (2014) MS+SNZ
Licensed Surveyor
Lachlan's experience in the surveying industry is marked by a diverse range of experiences that have equipped him with a wealth of knowledge and skills. He is a highly qualified professional, having graduated from Otago University with a Bachelor in Surveying in 2014.
Following his studies, Lachlan began his career as a LiDAR surveyor in Australia and Saudi Arabia, where he spent a year collecting and processing valuable data for nautical charting. He then spent two years as a hydrographic surveyor in various ports around Australia, where he demonstrated exceptional navigational and data collection skills.
Lachlan joined CFMA in 2017 where he was involved in several large-scale developments, including Shotover Country and Remarkables View Subdivision.
In 2020, Lachlan moved to Scotland to work on a range of engineering projects. He applied his extensive knowledge of surveying to provide accurate data for the construction of windfarms, distilleries, subdivisions, and overhead powerlines.
Today, Lachlan is based in Queenstown, where he has been involved in the development of Mount Cardrona Station Village. He brings a wealth of experience and expertise to this project, ensuring that it meets the highest industry standards.
EAMON O'BRIEN – B.Surv Otago (2019) AS+SNZ
Surveyor
Eamon obtained a Bachelor of Surveying from the University of Otago in 2019. After graduation, he spent a year working in Clark Fortune McDonald’s Dunedin office before moving to Queenstown. Since then, he has been heavily involved in civil construction setout, land development engineering, and land transfer subdivisions. Eamon’s goal for the future is to become a licensed Cadastral Surveyor. In his spare time Eamon enjoys playing cricket, golf, and rugby for the Wakatipu rugby club.
GEA HALLEN – BA Southampton (2011) MSC Geomatics Lund (2017) BSC Surveying Tallin (2022) AS+SNZ
Surveyor
Gea joined Clark Fortune McDonald in 2022. She holds a BSc of Surveying from Estonia and has gained wide ranging experience working in the industry in a number of countries (inc. Australia, the UK and Sweden). Her background also involves working in the GIS sector. On her spare time Gea is a keen runner and enjoys exploring the tramping trails NZ has to offer.
AARON KENT – B.Surv Otago (2019) AS+SNZ
Surveyor
Aaron completed his Bachelor of Surveying at Otago University in 2020 and soon after joined the team at Clark Fortune McDonald in Gore.
Since joining the team Aaron has been mostly involved in topographical surveys, boundary redefinitions, urban and rural cadastral surveying.
Aaron is developing his skills in the industry and is working towards becoming a licensed cadastral surveyor. Outside of work Aaron enjoys fishing, playing disc golf and is a gun quizzer.
KARL CLEMENTS – B.Surv (dist) Otago (2023)
Graduate Surveyor
Karl completed his Bachelor of Surveying degree at the University of Otago in 2023. Throughout his academic journey, Karl distinguished himself with numerous awards, showcasing his dedication and excellence in surveying.
Karl has had substantial experience as a survey technician and intern prior to and throughout his time at university, allowing him to cultivate his skills across various surveying roles. His time as a technician in Whāngarei offered hands-on involvement in topographical, engineering, redefinition, and cadastral surveys. Additionally, a brief internship in Sydney exposed him to various projects including metro and high-rise construction, civil engineering, and laser scanning.
Since joining CFMA in 2023, Karl has contributed to a variety of projects, including cadastral, topographical, and engineering surveys.
In his spare time, Karl enjoys getting out and about dirt biking, mountain biking and dabbling in any else that the Otago Region has to offer.
The Christchurch Team
GAVIN READ – B.Surv Otago (1998) MS+SNZ MCSNZ
Licensed Surveyor / Director
Gavin is the manager of our Christchurch Branch. He’s been part of the Clark Fortune McDonald team since 2011. He spent a couple of years after graduation in Northland gaining his registration as a Surveyor, then headed over to England for four years working as a site engineer on a range of construction projects. He returned to Christchurch in 2005 where he has been working as a Licensed Cadastral Surveyor since. During his time in New Zealand he has been involved in all aspects of land development on a range of large and small developments. Since the Canterbury earthquakes he has been involved in the reconstruction effort and has undertaken and overseen surveys in the hardest hit areas. With 20 years work experience, Gavin has considerable knowledge and experience in all aspects of land development. Outside of work Gavin enjoys spending time with his family and is a mad keen fisherman.
JOSEPH CAREY – B.Surv Otago (2018) AS+SNZ
Surveyor
Joseph finished his Bachelor of Surveying degree at the University of Otago in 2017. He joined Clark Fortune McDonald in 2018, since joining he has been involved in a range of cadastral, engineering and topographical surveys. Outside of work Joseph enjoys fishing and tramping.
STEVE MCARTHUR
Senior Survey Technician
Steve’s been working for CFMA for about 20 years. He’s a hands-on Surveyor with a wealth of experience. Most days you will find Steve on-site carrying out field work. Steve grew up in Auckland, spent a few years in Aussie, then came back to NZ where he started working for CFMA in Queenstown. He re-located to Christchurch in 2012 to assist the Christchurch Branch.
TOBY WARD – B.Surv Otago (2022) AS+SNZ
Graduate Surveyor
Toby completed his Bachelor of Surveying at the University of Otago in 2022 and joined up with the team at CFMA Christchurch after spending the two previous summers with them. Toby has been involved in many multi-unit residential projects since joining with topographical surveys, construction set-outs, consent applications, and cadastral surveying being the main tasks. A proud Cantabrian, Toby is making the most of what Canterbury has to offer outside of work with an armchair interest in cricket, rugby, hockey and football as well as getting out to Craigieburn Valley Ski Area for the best skiing in New Zealand (not biased).
The Dunedin Team
TOBY STOFF – B.Surv Otago (1992) MS+SNZ MCSNZ
Land Development Engineer
Toby Stoff has been with Clark Fortune McDonald since 1999. He specialises in land development engineering, project management, contract administration, construction surveying and quality control systems.
Outside of work Toby enjoys spending time with family & friends, supporting his family in their endeavours, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and photography.
JOSHUA JARVIE – B.Surv Otago (2017) AS+SNZ
Surveyor
Josh has been a part of the CFM team since finishing his degree at the University of Otago in 2016. Since beginning full time work, Josh has been involved in many large - scale projects such as Bridesdale Farm and Kawarau Falls Bridge Project, as well as numerous small – scale projects such as topographical surveys, redefinition surveys, LT subdivisions, general set out, asbuilts and BOMA surveys.
His goals for the near future include becoming a licensed cadastral surveyor and fine-tuning his skills in detailed civil design.
The Gore Team
BEN WILSON – B.Surv Otago (2007) MS+SNZ MCSNZ
Licensed Surveyor
Ben joined Clark Fortune McDonald in 2009 after gaining experience working in Central Otago and Canterbury, and is now the manager of our Gore branch. Ben has developed skills and knowledge across many aspects of surveying and land development, with particular experience in complex rural cadastral surveys. Outside of work Ben enjoys outdoor antics like back country tramping, mountain biking and photography.