The panel’s decision-making timeframe appears likely to extend well beyond the statutory default of 30 days allowed under the fast-track consenting process. Fast-track legislation provides for a default 30-working-day decision period for nationally significant, well-prepared projects. Submissions from agencies to Judge Borthwick, who is presently determining the panel’s final composition and decision timeframe, also raised worries about the timing, suggesting a much longer period might be needed. It was prepared to support a materially extended timeframe where required to ensure a robust, durable, expert-led decision. On Friday, Mr Spring told the ODT he remained confident a decision would be made quickly and mining would begin soon.

Source: Otago Daily Times January 25, 2026 15:38 UTC