Photo: Allied Media filesSantana Minerals is being accused of a second breach of overseas investment rules as it faces a legal challenge over a crucial land purchase. When the land was eventually put on the open market, information about the sale was not forthcoming, their lawyers said. The documents also showed that Land Information New Zealand (Linz), in 2023, found Santana Minerals breached overseas investment rules for its acquisition of New Zealand mining company Matakanui Gold Ltd in 2020. In October, Santana Minerals applied to the OIO for consent to acquire a combined total of about 3677 hectares of land at Ardgour and Bendigo Stations, in Tarras. In a statement, Mr Spring said Santana Minerals had engaged proactively and transparently with the OIO throughout the process.

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