Anti-mining protesters descend on Parliament

Anti-mining protesters were met by opposition MPs outside Parliament today. Photo / NZPA

Around 500 placard-waving protesters gathered today outside Parliament to show their opposition to Government plans to mine the conservation estate.

Green and Labour politicians were there to meet them, but it was a no show from the Government's ranks.

Labour leader Phil Goff told the cheering protesters that National told mining companies two years ago they were going to open up the estate for mining but kept it from the voting public.

"They have no mandate to do what they are planning to do. We will oppose the mining of our protected areas at every stage."

Mr Goff promises to return any mining on schedule four land to the conservation estate, if Labour becomes Government.

- NEWSTALK ZB