Protect Karangahake
Mt Karangahake, Southern Coromandel
Sunday 22 May 2016

At midday today twenty-five Protect Karangahake members once again occupied the Newcrest Mining drilling site on the edge of Mt Karangahake. ”Despite freezing winds and rain we are determined and resolute in our commitment to stop this drilling operation.” commented member Ruby Powell.

Member Lucy AitkenRead said “I am sitting on this drilling rig today to stop Newcrest Mining Ltd completing their work here on the side of Mount Karangahake. This rig has been drilling into the side of the mountain 24/7 for two weeks - it is undoubtedly having an impact on wildlife in this area - one of New Zealand's most important ecological corridors. We can feel the vibrations and hear the noise from our home in Waitawheta. These are the early stages of mining and I believe Newcrest Mining need to hear the message that we will not tolerate their exploitative practice here, right on the edge of Conservation land. “

“We will stay here as long as we can, Newcrest Mining Ltd won't pull the wool over our eyes” said AitkenRead as members wound woollen yarn around the site barriers as a protest.

Update on protest action taken by members of Protect Karangahake earlier today when they occupied the Newcrest drilling site on Mt Karangahake.

After the police arrived 10 people in total were trespassed. 7 were issued with trespass notices, 2 were issued with summons for a court appearance on trespass charges and 1 was arrested for trespass.

ENDS

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