Insights into New Zealand’s mining sector

New Zealand’s mining industry is worth NZ$5.505 billion and is expected to grow as the government continues to support the sustainable expansion of mining land.

In March 2010, New Zealand’s government announced a plan to open an additional 7000 hectares for mining. Prime Minister, John Key recently said “...the Government’s intention is to balance both its economic needs and advantages with its environmental responsibilities.” While negotiations are still in the works, expanding the amount of land allocated to mining will benefit New Zealand’s economy.

The New Zealand government owns all natural petroleum, radioactive minerals and gold and silver mined in New Zealand. Investors have the opportunity to obtain a permit and pay fees to mine these products. The same policy applies to any coal, other metallic and non-metallic minerals found on government-owned land.

Rich in minerals

International interest in New Zealand’s mining is growing. Changes in mining technology and increase in demand from export markets has increased the total value of mining output. Some of New Zealand’s natural minerals include:

• Non-metallic minerals – found throughout New Zealand
• Iron –found on the west coast of the North Island
• Oil and gas – found throughout the Taranaki region
• Gold – found primarily in the Coromandel, Otago and West Coast
• Coal – found throughout New Zealand.

Mining contributes to a range of other industries including agriculture, manufacturing, biotechnology, construction and transport.

Key Resources

We suggest looking at the following resources:

• Learn more about the history and culture of mining on The Encyclopedia of New Zealand website
• The Aggregate and Quarry Association of New Zealand provides more information about mining and the role of quarrying in New Zealand’s society
• The Ministry of Economic Development Crown Minerals website provides details about the mining industry in New Zealand and investment information
• The Crown Mineral’s 2008/2009 Annual Report
• The Geological Society of New Zealand represents people interested in the advancement of geology in New Zealand.