Sams Creek in Golden Bay is considered New Zealand’s largest undeveloped gold project, with previous studies indicating a significant amount of gold. Siren Gold, an Australian mining company, is proposing a gold mine in conservation land, facing opposition from residents and environmental groups.
Opponents highlight concerns about potential contamination of the aquifer, impacts on Te Waikoropupū Springs, particularly from the disposal of mining waste, and the potential impacts of a waste pit failure. Find out more at www.saveoursprings.nz.
TDC is to assess Siren Gold’s resource consent application. The “protection of outstanding natural features and landscapes from inappropriate use and development” is a matter of national importance in the Resource Management Act 1991. TDC is required by law to implement a Water Conservation Order (WCO) that was issued in 2023 and that affords the springs and the aquifer one of the highest levels of protection in NZ.
It’s about time TDC fully implemented the WCO into its policy framework and processed its Outstanding Natural Landscapes draft concept rules so that the Tasman Resource Management Plan can adequately protect the wealth and beauty of our district!