Taking Kermadec arc off the mining map

Research, Science and Technology Minister Wayne Mapp has backed heritage protection for the Kermadec region, which would place huge restrictions on mining off New Zealand's north coast.

Massive underwater mineral deposits of iron, manganese and copper – and lesser concentrations of zinc, lead and gold – around the volcanic Kermadec arc are being eyed up by mining companies.

But conservation groups have warned the virtually untouched wilderness could be devastated by deep-sea mining. The area is a marine reserve, where bottom trawling and dredging within 100 metres of the sea floor is banned.

National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research scientists are carrying out a study into how vulnerable the eco-system in the area is.

The islands – about 1000 kilometres north of Auckland – make up about 15 per cent of New Zealand's exclusive economic zone. In 2007 the region was put on a tentative list of eight sites which New Zealand planned to nominate for world heritage status.

Dr Mapp signalled his support in a speech to scientists gathered for a two-day conference on the Kermadec region at Te Papa. The event is being held as part of the United Nations International Year of Biodiversity.

A spokesman for Dr Mapp confirmed he backed the plan, however the measure would come under Conservation Minister Kate Wilkinson's portfolio. "He thinks it's a good idea."

Ms Wilkinson could not be contacted.

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