Over 90% of Submissions Support New Zealand Minerals Strategy

"The Minerals Strategy for New Zealand is the Coalition Government’s transformative vision for an enduring minerals sector, which has long suffered from a lack of clear, strategic direction," Minister Jones said.

A large majority of New Zealanders have expressed broad support for the Government's proposed minerals strategy, signaling strong public interest in a sustainable approach to minerals development, according to Resources Minister Shane Jones.

A summary of the 102 submissions on the draft strategy, released today by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, revealed that 96% of submitters backed the creation of a long-term plan to guide the future of mining in New Zealand.

"The Minerals Strategy for New Zealand is the Coalition Government's transformative vision for an enduring minerals sector, which has long suffered from a lack of clear, strategic direction," Minister Jones said.

The strategy aims to responsibly develop New Zealand's natural resources, promoting national and regional prosperity while supplying critical minerals for new technologies and the clean energy transition. The Government seeks to double the value of the country's mineral exports to $2 billion by 2035.

"With the right direction and settings, mining will boost regional opportunities and jobs, increase our self-sufficiency, and contribute to our export-led focus," Jones added.

Feedback from submitters also emphasized key considerations, including environmentally responsible mining practices, honoring the Treaty of Waitangi, enhancing regulatory and social responsibilities, building social licence, and leveraging innovation and research.

Jones acknowledged the valuable input from submitters, noting that their insights will be factored in as the strategy is finalized later this year.