Sam Neill Opposes Controversial Goldmine Near New Zealand Vineyard
Acclaimed actor and winemaker Sam Neill has joined the fight against a proposed open-cast goldmine in Central Otago, New Zealand, located just kilometers from his Two Paddocks vineyard. The Bendigo-Ophir project, led by Australian company Santana Minerals, seeks fast-track approval to access an estimated $6.75 billion in gold deposits. Neill, whose family has lived in the region for over 150 years, warns that the mine would permanently destroy one of the world's most beautiful and remote landscapes. He supports local environmental group Sustainable Tarras, which argues the industrial-scale operation threatens tourism, endangers up to 650,000 native lizards, and risks toxic waste dam failures during earthquakes. The controversy highlights a growing divide in New Zealand between economic development through mining and the preservation of its 'clean, green' reputation. While proponents cite significant economic benefits, opponents fear irreversible environmental damage to the Dunstan mountains, an area designated as an outstanding natural landscape. Neill emphasizes he is not anti-mining but specifically opposes this location, stating it would mark the end of the area's pristine character.
Wire timeline
Sam Neill Opposes Controversial Goldmine Near New Zealand Vineyard
Acclaimed actor and winemaker Sam Neill has joined the fight against a proposed open-cast goldmine in Central Otago, New Zealand, located just kilometers from his Two Paddocks vineyard. The Bendigo-Ophir project, led by Australian company Santana Minerals, seeks fast-track approval to access an estimated $6.75 billion in gold deposits. Neill, whose family has lived in the region for over 150 years, warns that the mine would permanently destroy one of the world's most beautiful and remote landscapes. He supports local environmental group Sustainable Tarras, which argues the industrial-scale operation threatens tourism, endangers up to 650,000 native lizards, and risks toxic waste dam failures during earthquakes. The controversy highlights a growing divide in New Zealand between economic development through mining and the preservation of its 'clean, green' reputation. While proponents cite significant economic benefits, opponents fear irreversible environmental damage to the Dunstan mountains, an area designated as an outstanding natural landscape. Neill emphasizes he is not anti-mining but specifically opposes this location, stating it would mark the end of the area's pristine character.
The Guardian