Mining industry in New Zealand - statistics & facts
Mining has played an integral part in New Zealand’s economic development since the 19th century. Commodities including coal, gold, and silver are mined across the country, with the resources produced from mining used locally as well as exported. The contribution that the mining industry has to the country’s gross domestic product is valued at over two billion New Zealand dollars.
Gold and silver mining in New Zealand are small segments of the mining industry. The gold production volume of the Macraes Mine, the most productive gold mine in the country, amounted to just over four thousand kilograms in 2021. The Martha Mine, located in Waihi, produces the largest amount of silver in New Zealand and was once one of the most important silver mines globally.
What is mined in New Zealand?
The first coal mine was opened in 1849, leading the way for many more large-scale coalfields to be discovered. As of 2022, New Zealand had 14 productive coal mines which were all open cast operations. The country uses coal for electricity generation, particularly in the South Island where there is no piped gas system. The manufacture of important products such as cement, steel, and wool rely on coal that is extracted domestically.Gold and silver mining in New Zealand are small segments of the mining industry. The gold production volume of the Macraes Mine, the most productive gold mine in the country, amounted to just over four thousand kilograms in 2021. The Martha Mine, located in Waihi, produces the largest amount of silver in New Zealand and was once one of the most important silver mines globally.
