Leslie Issott Grange, 1894–1980
Appointed director of the New Zealand Geological Survey, Department of Scientific and Industrial Research in 1952, Les Grange vigorously promoted the discovery and use of New Zealand’s natural resources. In an attempt to encourage the search for uranium, he produced a booklet for prospectors which led to widespread interest, and ultimately to the discovery made by Frederick Cassin and Charles Jacobsen.
Learn more at the Dictionary of New Zealand Biography
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Tasman Joseph McKee, 1911–1973
In 1938 the McKee family established Lime and Marble Ltd in the Nelson region to supply high-quality lime for industrial and agricultural use. After his father’s death in 1943, Tas McKee involved the company in a wide range of mineral exploration projects, including the search for uranium.
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Thomas Athol Rafter, 1913–1996
After a cabinet decision in 1948 to establish a group of scientists in the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research to undertake nuclear research, Athol Rafter was sent to the USA to study and visit nuclear institutions. He was a strong advocate for the peaceful use of nuclear science, especially carbon-14 dating, and was the first director of the Institute of Nuclear Sciences (1959–78).
Learn more at the Dictionary of New Zealand Biography
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