Taranaki seabed mining fast-track bid

The story so far

Trans-Tasman Resources' application for its Taranaki VTM project was accepted as complete in May 2025, moving it to the next stage of the fast-track process. The proposal would mine 50 million tonnes of the South Taranaki Bight seabed each year, and opponents have raised concerns about threats to marine life. Reports describe the mining period differently, as 30 years or 20 years.^{17 May 2025; 15 Jun 2025} The New Plymouth District Council voted to oppose the project, joining the Whanganui and South Taranaki district councils. The Taranaki Regional Council is preparing a public statement after claims that it had been influenced by the company, with Councillor Bonita Bigham saying clarification is necessary.^{24, 25 Jun 2025} A fishing club leader warned the project could destroy significant areas of an important fishery, and said he was surprised it had progressed despite a Supreme Court decision and a court-ordered environmental hearing.^{7 Jul 2025}

Latest

In August 2025 Trans-Tasman Resources said it had provided sufficient evidence to proceed, after fast-track panel convener Jennifer Caldwell said the company's approach would delay the approvals process. Local iwi and hapū continue to oppose the project.^{18 Aug 2025}

What's next

The Waitangi Tribunal has said it may reconsider its decision if the fast-track process is found to be unfair.^{22 Jul 2025}

Key moments

1. 17 May 2025Project application accepted as complete, moving to the next fast-track stage.
2. 15 Jun 2025South Taranaki hapū seek urgent Waitangi Tribunal hearing to halt the bid.
3. 24 Jun 2025Taranaki Regional Council to clarify its stance after influence accusations.
4. 25 Jun 2025New Plymouth District Council votes to oppose the South Taranaki Bight proposal.
5. 22 Jul 2025Waitangi Tribunal declines application to halt the Pātea seabed mining bid.
6. 18 Aug 2025Company says evidence is sufficient after panel convener criticises its approach.

Written from the stories below; each sentence links to its sources.