The Government's release of a discussion paper on the further development of New Zealand's extensive mineral resources has drawn some controversy. New Zealand's mineral resources, excluding coal and other hydrocarbon-based minerals, are estimated to be worth $194 billion.

Much of New Zealand's mineral potential is locked-up in public conservation areas. And schedule Four of the Crown Mineral Act prohibits all mining other than minimum impact activity in these areas.

The Government's discussion paper proposes to remove 7,058 hectares of land from Schedule Four, just 0.2% of the 4.6 million hectares of Schedule Four land. If mining development did go ahead, only about 5% of the 7,058 hectares might be used, or as little as 500 hectares.

The Government is taking submissions on this proposal. Submissions close on 4 May. Go to www.med.govt.nz/schedule4 for more information.