Mine drilling protest

A group of protesters made sure commuters knew the location of Evolution Mining's unmarked offices on Friday afternoon. Photo / Michael Cunningham

Protesters say they could be helping to create some of the only Kiwi jobs to come out of a controversial mining exploration at Puhipuhi, north of Whangarei.

On Friday a group of about 40 protesters picketed the unmarked Bank St, Whangarei, headquarters of Evolution Mining, which has the rights to explore for gold at Puhipuhi.

The cry of "Evolution go home!" rang out, buoyed by a constant stream of honking from passing cars.

Minewatch Northland spokesman Tim Howard said his group was acting in response to Evolution bringing in drilling equipment to Puhipuhi.

It was feared the drilling would release toxic deposits into the waterways. The economic argument for the venture was also weak, Mr Howard said.

"[Evolution] have said this mine would be worth about $1 billion if it goes ahead. But if you look at where that goes, it goes to foreign investors, Government royalties and fly-in fly-out workers. The only real generators of employment are the protesters because we're forcing them to hire more security."

Evolution senior geologist and project manager Jackie Hobbins said the company planned to drill up to 10 bore holes, about 10cm in diameter to depths of up to 600m at Puhipuhi. The holes would be plugged and grouted to protect aquifers and would comply with all central and local government requirements, she said.

Even if economic gold deposits were found, mining would still be at least five years away, Ms Hobbins said. It would also depend on environmental, economic and engineering feasibility studies, extensive consultation and relevant permits and consents being obtained.

Ngati Hau Anti-Mining Group spokesman Vaughan Potter said Evolution simply were not welcome and he was "absolutely" confident the company could be stopped with peaceful, patient direct action.

"The way forward is to keep putting pressure on them with peaceful family protest, to make more and more people aware."