There is other, better gold than gold itself in Otago, Jonathan West writes.
Santana Minerals proposes a vast open-cast gold mine to cut through the Dunstan Mountains above the Clutha River.
CEO Damien Spring says “the gold rush has started” and his company trumpets big sums: perhaps $5 billion revenues for this small band of Australian miners and their investors; perhaps $1b in taxes and royalties for the government.
Truly impressive returns, especially for a company that’s never built or operated a mine before.
What will the result be for local communities and Otago? Perhaps 200 jobs, and downstream spending.
It’s too easy for Otago residents to be starry-eyed about gold, remembering the wealth sieved from shining rivers.
Yet Central’s riches have long been in tourists, wine and fruits. Natural beauty, clear air and pure water underpin a booming economy doubling every 20 years. There is no shortage of wealth or jobs in Central Otago.
Acknowledging the potential financial rewards, we must equally consider the impacts and risks of open-cast mines in the region’s heart for Otago’s people, existing economy, and natural world.
[Read the full article in the ODT here]
Once you’ve read this article, consider coming to our upcoming public meetings in Dunedin or Wānaka during June 2025. Full details and registration here.
Here are some further useful links for you:
- Can’t make the meeting, but want to stay informed? Sign up to our mine opposition list, and we’ll keep in touch.
- Want to help, but don’t know how? Here are some ideas.
- Want to contribute financially? Thanks. Every little helps. Here’s the link.
- Looking for more information about the mine? No problem. There is plenty here.
Sustainable Tarras 