In a significant development regarding mineral prospecting, over 8 square kilometers of land are currently under consideration for potential gold and mineral exploration across Long Gully Station, a property owned by the Watson family. This has raised concerns among local residents and environmental advocates, particularly given the ongoing discussions regarding the Golden Hills 2.0 prospecting permit application submitted by Samuel and Joanna Watson.
The New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals (NZP&M) agency has already approved a separate permit to Quicksand for mineral prospecting, underscoring a growing interest in the area’s geological resources. This permit is valid for two years and is part of a suite of applications aimed at exploring the mineral potential in Wellington’s hills, which stretches from the capital to the coast.
John Buick-Constable, MBIE national manager for petroleum, minerals, and offshore renewable energy, informed that eight additional applications have been submitted targeting nearby regions for mineral prospecting, specifically for gold. He emphasized that prospecting, being an early stage in mineral exploration, typically involves activities such as geological mapping, hand sampling, and aerial surveys, which are designed to minimize environmental impact.
The permits are issued under the Crown Minerals Act (CMA), which grants exclusive rights to the permit holders to explore for specified minerals. However, concerns remain about the broader environmental ramifications. The agency does not consider neighboring properties or potential environmental impacts at the permit approval stage. Any required resource consent would factor these considerations into the evaluation process.
Wellington City Council, which oversees Zealandia—a nearby conservation reserve—has registered concerns regarding allegations of mining activities and major earthworks in the vicinity. A council spokesman stated that they are actively investigating the situation and exploring enforcement options as necessary.
Wellington Mayor Tory Whanau has publicly criticized the approval of the mineral prospecting permit, describing it as a shortsighted decision by the government that prioritizes business interests over environmental protection. She warned that such developments could jeopardize the city’s conservation efforts and harm its biodiversity, echoing a commitment to urge local residents to oppose these activities.
This concern comes at a time when gold prices are reaching record highs, with economic uncertainty driving interest in gold as a “safe haven” asset. The recent spike in prices to over US$3,600 an ounce could encourage increased exploration activities in regions like Wellington.
Zealandia has become a significant site for conservation, aiming to restore local ecosystems while actively trying to reintroduce native wildlife that had previously disappeared from the mainland. The area, once farmland, has been transformed into a 225-hectare sanctuary that has drawn international attention for its ambitious conservation goals.
Historical context reveals that Wellington’s hills have been subjects of gold prospecting before, particularly during the alluvial gold rush in the late 1980s. However, previous efforts resulted in poor returns and were eventually abandoned.
The situation is evolving, and the community continues to seek clarity and assert its stance on the balance between economic development and environmental preservation. The eyes of Wellington residents remain trained on the outcomes of these prospecting applications and their potential impacts on the environment they cherish.
