Waihi gold mine may last beyond 2020
A new exploration programme could extend the life of the gold mine in Waihi for another ten years.
Gold mining at the Coromandel town of Waihi could last until 2020 and beyond, thanks to a new exploration programme announced by mine operator Newmont Waihi Gold.
It consists of two parts, the first being the Martha Exploration Project, a small underground exploration programme located entirely within the existing Martha mining licence area and the pit rim.
This will require a variation to the existing Martha mining licence.
The second part of the programme is Correnso, a potential underground mine in Waihi East which, if it proceeds, would replace the existing underground Favona and Trio mines.
This will require consents under the Resource Management Act to go ahead.
Newmont Waihi Gold general manager Glen Grindlay says ongoing exploration activities have indicated promising deposits of gold and silver.
The programme is important to the local community and wider New Zealand, he says.
“Gold mining is a significant contributor to the local and national economies through money that goes back into the community and through taxes, employment and training,” Mr Grindlay says.
“This programme would ensure the continuation of employment for those 700 people employed directly or indirectly by the current exploration and mining operations, as well as the sustainability of the local economy, including businesses, schools and social services.”
Mr Grindlay says the programme may be “daunting” for some residents but modern underground mining techniques mean there will be little environmental effect.
“Newmont Waihi Gold has an excellent environmental track record and our performance is closely monitored by independent agencies.
“We have successfully operated an underground mine near residential areas in Waihi for seven years and have in place a number of programmes to minimise and mitigate any adverse effects.”
Niko Kloeten
Tue, 23 Aug 2011
Tue, 23 Aug 2011
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Waihi gold mine may last beyond 2020
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