Mining in New Zealand is undergoing a significant shift in its approach. Once considered a challenging jurisdiction for mineral development due to regulatory hurdles and environmental opposition, the country is now opening its doors to new mining investment and exploration. The government has introduced bold legislative changes, launched a national minerals strategy, and signalled strong political support for resource development. As a result, companies like Rua Gold are progressing exploration projects with renewed momentum. But what does this mean for investors, companies, and communities? This article explores how New Zealand is repositioning itself as a serious mining jurisdiction.
New Government, New Direction
In late 2023, a new coalition government came to power in New Zealand with a clear focus on economic resilience and resource development. Minister Shane Jones, who now leads the Ministry for Resources, has been outspoken in his support for the sector. In a recent interview on the Dig Deep The Mining Podcast, he described the government’s position as “pro-industry” and unapologetically committed to reversing what he called “climate cultism” and overregulation. The fast-track reforms, which came into law in December 2024, allow mining and infrastructure projects to bypass several layers of environmental red tape. Permitting timeframes that once took years can now be completed in as little as six months. As of mid-2025, nearly 150 projects are moving through the new process.
The policy changes extend beyond permitting. The government has established a NZ$200 million co-investment fund to encourage domestic and foreign investment in resource projects. Capital developments are further incentivised by a 20% depreciation schedule in the first year, and changes to foreign direct investment rules are also in motion. Together, these measures are designed to reduce risk, unlock capital, and restore confidence among investors.
Minerals Strategy and Critical Minerals List
In early 2025, the New Zealand Government launched its first official Minerals Strategy and accompanying Critical Minerals List. The strategy outlines a vision to double mineral exports to NZ$3 billion by 2035 and is centred on three key outcomes: Productivity, Value, and Resilience. This marks a major turning point for mining in New Zealand, aligning economic and geopolitical priorities with domestic resource development.
The Critical Minerals List identifies 37 minerals considered essential for economic security, technological advancement, and energy transition. These include antimony, tungsten, vanadium, and rare earth elements, alongside more traditional commodities like gold and metallurgical coal. The inclusion of coal and gold on the list was controversial but reflects their economic contribution, accounting for around 80% of current export revenues.
Rua Gold, one of the companies featured on Dig Deep The Mining Podcast, is actively exploring for both gold and antimony in the historic Reefton district. CEO Robert Eckford emphasised how the government’s reforms have accelerated their plans. “We’re now sitting on New Zealand’s biggest known antimony deposit,” he said, highlighting the deposit’s strategic relevance given China’s dominance and recent export restrictions.
Repositioning Mining in National Identity
Mining has long played a role in New Zealand’s development, with coal and gold extraction dating back to the 19th century. However, in recent decades the sector has been marginalised, both politically and socially. Minister Jones believes this is changing, arguing that the country must reclaim its right to utilise domestic resources to remain economically viable. These policy changes are reframing mining in New Zealand as a strategic and responsible growth sector.
“We do not believe that economic self-sufficiency can be achieved without using our natural resources,” he said. “We’re not going to be shouted down by shrill voices who catastrophise mining’s role in the economy.”
Opposition, however, remains strong. Environmental groups and some public submissions have criticised the fast-track law for lacking transparency and reducing community input. As reported by The Guardian, nearly 30,000 public submissions were made opposing the legislation. Concerns include the risk of ecological damage, particularly in sensitive conservation areas.
Balancing Opportunity and Responsibility
Despite the controversy, many see New Zealand’s new approach as a necessary correction. With global competition for critical minerals intensifying, supply chain security is now a strategic priority. Companies like Rua Gold are also demonstrating how engagement with local communities and iwi groups (Māori tribal organisations) can be done respectfully and transparently.
Rua Gold’s approach includes regular updates and consultations with iwi, even when exploration activities are not taking place on Māori land. This proactive engagement is helping to build trust and mutual benefit, creating a model that other explorers can follow. With strong community relations, political backing, and promising geological assets, New Zealand could soon become a compelling option for critical mineral development.
Summary
Mining in New Zealand is entering a new era. With fast-track permitting laws, government co-investment, and a national minerals strategy now in place, the country is making a serious bid to re-enter the global mining conversation. At the same time, companies like Rua Gold are advancing exploration projects for gold and antimony, aligned with both national policy and local stakeholder engagement.
While not without criticism, the momentum is clear. The government’s willingness to streamline regulation and support the sector financially signals a new era for resource development in the country. If successful, New Zealand could serve as a model for how smaller economies can responsibly tap into their geological potential.
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