A Golden Comeback: New Zealand’s Resources Sector Enters A New Era

As the world turns its attention back to the value of metals and minerals, New Zealand stands on the change of a new chapter in the resource sector. With an increase in demand and possibility of new investors eyeing traditional markets, the nation’s mineral-rich landscape is once again drawing international interest. A series of recent announcements from Resources Minister Shane Jones signals that New Zealand could soon enter a resources golden era, one built on innovation, responsible extraction and economic opportunity.

A New Dawn for Gold Mining in Central Otago

New Zealand’s mining future received a major boost with the granting of a 30-year mining permit to Matakanui Gold Limited, a subsidiary of Santana Minerals, for the Rise and Shine prospect, part of the Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project in the Dunstan Mountains, Central Otago.

The project is being hailed as one of the most significant gold discoveries in decades and is expected to generate billions of dollars in value over its lifespan. According to Mr Jones, this development represents a major milestone that will deliver “well-paid employment, infrastructure investment and economic resilience” for the region.

Economic and employment impact

The proposed mine will directly employ 357 people and support a further 500 indirect jobs each year, with a strong emphasis on hiring locally. Average annual salaries are projected to reach NZ$140,300, more than double the Central Otago average.

The benefits extend well beyond the region. The Crown is forecast to collect hundreds of millions of dollars in royalties in the first 14 years, while an estimated NZ$800 million in taxes will flow into government coffers, funds that will help support healthcare, education and infrastructure across the country.

Building Skills for the Future

The project is not just about extraction, it is an investment in people. Training opportunities now will prepare the next generation of miners in both opencast and underground mining techniques, ensuring New Zealand’s workforce is equipped with the specialised skills needed for future projects.

Minister Jones noted that such initiatives will strengthen the sector and create a steady stream of skilled workers to support the growing pipeline of mining developments across the country in the coming decades.

Fast-Track Approval and national growth

The Bendigo-Ophir project is listed under Schedule 2 of the Fast-Track Approvals Act 2024, allowing Matakanui Gold to access an expedited consenting process for the remaining approvals before operations commence. Mr Jones praised this progress, highlighting that the project demonstrates the untapped potential of New Zealand’s mineral estate, even in areas once thought to be exhausted by past mining activity.

Momentum builds across the mining sector

Further showing confidence in New Zealand’s mining industry, Endura Mining, formerly Federation Mining, successfully raised around NZ$172 million towards developing the Snowy River Gold Mine on the West Coast.

The capital boost goes into direct investment like local communities, supporting jobs and business growth. The former Provincial Growth Fund had already provided a NZ$15 million loan in 2019 to help develop the project near Reefton and it is now paying dividends.

Key investors include AustralianSuper, Endura’s largest shareholder and Orion Resource Partners, a global investment firm with a long-standing record in metals and minerals. Minister Jones welcomed this show of confidence, noting that New Zealand is “taking its rightful place at the forefront of new investment in mining.”

A prosperous future beneath the surface

The Coalition Government remains committed to harnessing New Zealand’s natural wealth responsibly.The Government wants to use New Zealand’s minerals in order to create more local jobs, boost exports, and build a stronger, lasting economy.

With new projects starting, New Zealand is clearly entering a resources golden era full of growth and opportunity.