Photo: Google MapsA Southland mine that could produce more than $50 million of gold a year has been given the go ahead. Waikaka Gold Mines Ltd has received consent from the Gore District Council and Environment Southland to operate a mine near Waikaka, about 20km north of Gore. Four sections of the Waikaka Stream and Shepherds Creek would be diverted temporarily, before being returned to their current alignment. Consent conditions include that the working area of the mine not be any bigger than 20ha at any one time and that the total area not exceed 100ha or 50m deep. There was significant emphasis placed on protecting the Waikaka Stream and Shepherds Creek.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 02, 2026 11:08 UTC