Recent activity regarding the proposed Sam’s Creek mining project in Golden Bay has prompted renewed interest from the community with some concerns raised around potential risks to water supply and the health of Te Waikoropupū Springs.
Our role in this process is one of a consenting authority, which requires us to assess the application and its effects and subsequently make any decisions around granting consent.
The current consent conditions are consistent with protecting the Aquifer and Springs and overall environmental impacts are minimal and very localised.
Monitoring staff have visited the sites, and from our observations, environmental impacts appear to be minimal.
We are mindful of the community’s concerns and in the broader sense share the view that Te Waikoropupū Springs is a taonga that should be looked after.
We will continue to ensure the applicant meets the terms of their resource consents.