Government hints at major mining announcement, defends using conservation land

“We should understand which areas are really important to Kiwis and which we can use for economic use.”

He said most of the fast-track proposals were not on conservation land and much of the land they are looking at was “overrun” with pests.

Jones also spoke about the oil and gas ban by the previous government, under the leadership of then-Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, saying it was the “worst decision” he was ever associated with.

“If it is covered in her unwanted new book, I’ll be the first to cover it if it is unfactual,” he said.

During his State of the Nation speech yesterday, Luxon defended the controversial issue.

“It’s easy in politics to say you want a sovereign wealth fund like Norway, or much higher incomes like Australia – but it’s much harder to say you want the oil and mining that pays for it.

On mining on conservation land, Luxon said there was “marginal” land across New Zealand where this should happen.

“The reality is you need lithium to power an EV,” Luxon said.

“You need critical minerals … if you want to build more roads, I want quarries closer to where those [roads are being built].

“I want to see mining employ more Kiwis and power more growth in the economy and I’m adamant we must take further steps to make that a reality.”

Speaking to media later, Luxon acknowledged there was “sensitivity” around mining, but “we don’t have the luxury to turn off growth”.

“When there is opportunity, we are going to say yes to stuff. I appreciate that won’t be everyone’s cup of tea.”

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