Mining information session sparks interest in West Coast opportunities

The event connected school leavers and community members with upcoming opportunities in the mining sector.

DWC Project Manager, Jade Mahuika, explained, “This event was all about showcasing the roles available in the mining industry and providing a pathway for those looking to enter this field.”

The session featured representatives from key industry players, including Federation Mining, Alton Drilling Ltd, Bathurst Resources, Doughood Mining, Westland Mineral Sands, and Tai Poutini Polytechnic's Digger School.

Attendees, numbering around 80, gained valuable insights into career prospects and training options.

Buller Mayor Jamie Cleine commented, “It’s incredibly exciting to see major employers in our region collaborating to showcase the exciting opportunities available in the mining sector.

This collaborative effort underscores the commitment to creating local talent and supporting the economic growth of the West Coast region.

According to Infometrics, the West Coast’s mineral sector currently contributes $217.9m in GDP (8.4% of the region’s total) and employs 640 people (3.8% of local jobs). With a productivity rate of $340,469 per job—more than double the New Zealand average.

DWC Chief Executive Heath Milne noted that with several significant mining projects on the horizon, the sector is poised to deliver substantial, high-value contributions to the regional and national economy.

The Ministry of Social Development’s Regional Commissioner Craig Churchill, said: “It was fantastic to be able to support the mining industry and to connect with local job seekers.

"With lots of mining industry jobs on offer across the West Coast, we are eager to see more New Zealanders participating in this sector and will be proactively following up on this session to connect employers and job seekers, as well as exploring how we can provide further employment support to this growing industry.”