The submission period for Westland Mineral Sands’ application for resource consent to mine over 112 hectares of farmland at Mananui closed on Wednesday, with a total of 72 submissions received by the West Coast Regional Council.
Of the submissions, 49 were in support, 19 opposed, and four neutral.
The company, which already operates a similar mine at Cape Foulwind, plans to transport the mined sand to the Port of Greymouth via trucks.
However, local residents, iwi groups, and environmental organisations have voiced their opposition, citing concerns about traffic, noise, environmental damage, and the potential impacts on the area’s cultural significance.
One of the primary points of concern for local residents is the safety of pedestrians and cyclists using the Mahinapua Straight section of State Highway 6, where heavy mining traffic would pass daily.
A joint submission from 18 residents and property owners argued the stretch of road, already hazardous due to the high speed limit, would become even more dangerous with the additional truck traffic.
They proposed the construction of a dedicated safe lane and safe crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists and recommended reducing the speed limit on this section of highway to 80kmh.
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has also voiced opposition, citing concerns about insufficient plans for the impact on State Highway 6.
Michael and Philippa Meuli, whose property lies near the proposed mining site, raised concerns over the aesthetic impact the mine would have on the surrounding landscape.
"We acknowledge the need to mine where this resource is found, and we acknowledge the huge value this project brings to our community, both locally and beyond.
"However, a very small number of local residents are paying a big price for this mine," the Meulis said.
"Our enjoyment of the natural vista will of course be impaired.
"Our view of Mt Cook, for example, is in direct line with the processing plant," Michael Meuli said.
They were also worried about noise and dust.
Karen Stuart, another property owner affected by the proposed mine, highlighted the long-term ecological damage the mining operation could cause, expressed concern the mine’s operations would not adequately mitigate the effects on the Mahinapua cycle trail and walkway, a popular local recreational route.
Fitzherbert Court Motels in Hokitika is opposed because it would increase heavy traffic past the motel, disrupting guests.
Motel management is urging truck traffic be halted between 10pm and 6am to minimise disruption.
West Coast iwi, Poutini Ngāi Tahu, has also opposed the proposal. In a joint submission with te Runanga o Ngāti Waewae and te Runanga o Makaawhio, they emphasised the sacred cultural significance of Lake Mahinapua and its surrounding areas.
"Given the culturally significant values associated with Tuwharewhare (Māhinapua Creek) and its margins, Poutini Ngāi Tahu are seeking a more precautionary approach," the iwi said.
It called for the initial mining to occur at a greater distance from the creek and its wetland.
"It is critical for Poutini Ngãi Tahu that no direct discharges of mine water to the creek can eventuate."
The iwi also raised concerns over the discrepancies between the applicant’s environmental assessments and the independent peer reviews conducted by the council.
It has indicated it would reconsider its position if its concerns were addressed adequately.
Similarly, the Department of Conservation (Doc) and environmental group Forest & Bird are alarmed by the potential destruction of ecologically sensitive areas, including the habitat of the threatened West Coast green gecko.
Forest & Bird argued the application does not sufficiently assess the environmental impact on significant natural areas or the potential loss of wetland habitats.
Both organisations recommended alternative mining sites be considered to avoid ecologically sensitive areas.
Despite the strong opposition from residents and environmental groups, the proposal has garnered significant support from the West Coast business community.
Grey District Mayor Tania Gibson expressed confidence the company would operate the proposed mine with the same care and attention to environmental concerns.
Development West Coast, a regional economic development agency, has also supported the project, citing an independent economic analysis that predicts the Mananui mine will generate $71 million in export revenue annually.
The study also estimates that the mine will add $37.9m each year to the West Coast economy.
Supporters argue the project could create up to 70 well-paid jobs in engineering, maintenance, and other roles.
Mines Rescue, a local emergency response service, also expressed support for the mine, citing the need for investment in the region following the decline of coal mining.
Other local businesses, including Cycle Journeys, Truline Civil, Brightwater Engineering, and Westpower, have echoed these sentiments.
Former Grey District Council chief executive Paul Pretorius also threw his support behind the project, calling the applicant a competent, highly responsible operator.
Local businesses like Buller Fire and Safety Ltd, which has observed the development of the Okari site, said noise and disruption were effectively mitigated in that project and they expect the same for the Mananui site.
The West Coast Regional Council will now consider the submissions before making a decision.
— Greymouth Star
