Waikaka Gold Mine Approved After Rigorous Review

Waikaka Gold Mines Limited has received full resource consent approval for a major gold mining project at 972 Waikaka Road, Chatton North. The decision, signed off by Gore District Council and Environment Southland, allows the project to move ahead under what are described as some of the toughest environmental conditions ever applied in the district.

Independent commissioners Dr Ian Boothroyd, Ros DayCleavin and Stephanie Dijkstra issued the joint decision after a detailed, multi-day hearing. The panel reviewed technical reports, council planning assessments and submissions from both supporters and opponents. Matters examined included groundwater, flood risk, ecology, landscape effects, traffic, noise and cultural values.

The commissioners concluded that adverse effects can be managed and that the proposal meets the Resource Management Act tests for non-complying activities.

Gore Mayor Ben Bell welcomed the outcome, saying the proposal had been thoroughly tested. “The decision confirms that the effects can be managed and that it meets the legal tests under the Resource Management Act. That gives us confidence this is robust and stands up."

He said strong emphasis had been placed on protecting the Waikaka Stream and Shepherds Creek. "I am glad to see the conditions around protecting the Waikaka Stream and Shepherds Creek. The mine has to fully rehabilitate any diverted sections and achieve no net loss in ecological value. That's backed up by clear expectations for riparian planting, putting habitat back, maintaining fish passage, and ongoing monitoring to make sure it's actually delivered."

Mr Bell also acknowledged the role of Hokonui Rūnanga in shaping the consent conditions. "Hokonui Rūnanga's input on cultural values, stream rehabilitation, and ongoing engagement has helped shape conditions that respect the relationship with the Waikaka catchment."

He noted the potential economic impact for the district. "The commissioners rightly focused on environmental and legal requirements foremost, but I was glad to see they also recognised the potential for economic growth, bring jobs and positive flow-on effects for the district."

The consents allow for an open-cut mine covering up to 100 hectares and reaching depths of 50 metres. Groundwater can be taken for dewatering, processing and dust suppression. Sections of the Waikaka Stream and Shepherds Creek may be temporarily diverted and later reinstated. Treated water may be discharged under strict quality limits, and land and waterways must be restored to equal or better ecological value than before mining. The consents are valid for 20 years.

Detailed management plans will govern stream diversion, fish protection, acid drainage, erosion control and dust management. Financial bonds are required to guarantee rehabilitation.

While economic projections were considered inconclusive, the panel recognised likely local employment and regional benefits. Waikaka Gold Mines Limited expects the mine to operate for seven to eight years, though the consent period spans 20 years.

Submitters have 15 working days to lodge an appeal with the Environment Court.