Who we are

Aquifer MApping is a New Zealand–based private company focused on advancing subsurface mapping technology. Led by Dr Michael du Preez, a PhD-qualified hydrogeologist, our work is built on over 15 years of research, field testing, and global application. We combine science, engineering, and artificial intelligence to deliver practical tools that work in real-world conditions. Our technology has been used across government, agriculture, commercial development, mining, and environmental projects worldwide. At our core, we are a team driven by innovation, precision, and a commitment to improving how people understand and manage the ground beneath them.

Our Team

Dr Michael du Preez

Founder & Technical Director 

Dr Michael du Preez is the Technical Director of Aquifer Mapping. He holds a PhD in Geo-Hydrology and a Master of Technology in Electrical Engineering, combining deep scientific expertise with advanced engineering capability. His background spans geohydrology, geophysics, electrical engineering, telecommunications, and software development. With extensive experience in coding (C++, Delphi, PHP) and electronics design — including power systems, microcontrollers, PCB and analog circuit design.

Roger Monckton

Consultant & Investor

Roger Monckton is a Consultant and Series Seed Investor based in New Zealand. With a background in civil engineering from the University of Auckland, he began his career in multinational consultancy before moving into project management roles at Downer and Bondor (a subsidiary of James Hardie). Since then, he has invested in and supported a wide range of start-up companies. His broad engineering experience, industry connections, and strategic guidance have played an important role in advancing Aquifer Mapping technology.

Founder & General Manager

John McKendry

Originating from an established New Zealand farming family Mr. McKendry understands the value of good water. Furthermore, it was from his career within the commercial property sector that whilst working in Dubai he further gained firsthand understanding of the global issues faced within water sector.

He has extensive experience within the mechanical engineering sector and has led he development of the seismic machines that Aquifer Mapping now operates.

Mr. McKendry has led the company through the 15-year development and testing stages and remains as General Manager of day-to-day operations.

Neil Knight

Investor

Neil Knight is a New Zealand–based Series Seed Investor with a strong focus on clean energy and agriculture. As an active investor in both sectors, he brings practical industry insight alongside strategic support. In addition to his investment work, Neil is also a farmer, giving him firsthand understanding of land, water, and sustainable resource management.