New Zealand First has announced a pro-mining policy package focused on streamlining approvals, extending mining permit durations, and directing 50% of royalties back to the regions where resources are extracted.
Winston Peters said the plan would “restore common sense,” pave the way for new mining zones, and ensure a greater share of economic benefits remains in local communities instead of returning to Wellington.
NZ First argues the current approval system is overly slow and complex, with “rules that don’t improve environmental outcomes but do a very good job of deterring investment and costing jobs.”
The party is proposing to revise where mining is permitted; introduce longer-term permits covering the entire life cycle of a mine—including rehabilitation; and modernise regulations governing geological surveying.
Half of mining royalties would be channelled back to the communities where extraction takes place, supporting projects such as water services, flood protection, energy generation, transport, housing infrastructure, and mine rescue capabilities.
NZ First is also proposing the creation of a new School of Mines to train New Zealanders for higher-paying roles in the sector.
Broadcaster Ryan Bridge told his audience that NZ First’s policy “hits all the right notes” but said the larger concern is investor confidence.
“If you’re an international player with options and a world in front of you, the disruption, civil disobedience, and political uncertainty on display here don’t go unnoticed,” Bridge said.
“If the threat of a Labour–Greens government hangs over your permits, what are they really worth? ”