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Regional | Mining

Anti-mining groups gather in support of Ngāti Hau

Security for the Evolution Mining Company mining at Puhipuhi was breached today as anti-mining groups, hapū and the public from across the region gathered in support of local hapū Ngāti Hau's anti-mining stance.

A march took place at Puhipuhi this afternoon with protestors determined to make it to the Evolution Mining company drill site.

Hami Tohu, Te Orewai / Ngapuhi says, “All the placards will tell you that Northlanders don't agree with the drilling here. They [the mining company] are searching for minerals and there's no benefit here for the community.”

Jef Murupaenga - Ikin, Kanataa / Norway says, “We need to stand as one, steadfast to fight companies looking to drill because it's wrong.”

Te Uri o Hau is concerned that ten years of effort and resources on the Integrated Kaipara Harbour Management Group could be for nothing.

Deborah Harding, Te Uri o Hau says, "Is our investment going to be hindered by the impact of the mining action that would occur up here?  By the sounds of it this morning, most definitely it will.”

Ben Smith, Farmer / Scientist says, “The plan to take action is gonna come in as well as we've gotta gain that employment and that science back into the community, so that we can employ these young people in an industry that's sustainable.”

One idea at today's talks suggests to continue this regular action would possibly put off investors keen to finance mining projects here.

Murupaenga-Ikin says, “She is our mother symbol. The land and water is priority. Water is the life source.”

“It doesn't just affect Māori but all our families and friends of all ethnicities. If the water is poisoned and we have no water, then we all die,” says Tohu.

Time will tell whether today's action will have other consequences.