As mining makes a political comeback Catherine Masters finds strong local opposition to the prospect of a Northland gold rush

The Northland's Puhipuhi was where gold was discovered in the 19th century, and might well be found again. Photos by Steven McNicholl

A fire broke out today in Newmont Waihi Gold's Trio underground mine, trapping 28 miners. The company operates a huge mining development in Waihi, employing 350 people. The Trio underground mine is about halfway between the Martha open pit mine and the Favona underground mine in Waihi.

Aussie mining towns draw sex workers from afar, but police claim the trade is blighted by traffickers.