Remediated mine becomes new Reefton attraction

The new public recreation area includes 22km of tracks to and within part of the previously closed and rehabilitated OceanaGold Globe Progress mine site just outside of Reefton.

The Globe Hill Track and Globe Progress Mine tracks and visitor facilities, including a shelter, interpretation panels telling the story of the site, and toilets, have been developed by OceanaGold after almost 10 years working the area in search of gold. They provide a distinctive experience where people can get into nature and learn about the area’s recent mining heritage says Chris Hickford, DOC Greymouth District Operations Manager.

“This area offers a unique look at the mine site rehabilitation following mining activity. It will be a great addition to the already popular visitor experiences Reefton offers and attract people to the area.

“The tracks have been built to deliver great opportunities for walkers and bikers to get “naturing”. The track to Globe Progress starts on the outskirts of Reefton benefiting visitors and the local community, who can enjoy this new recreation asset right on their doorstep.”

Alison Paul, OceanaGold Senior Vice President, NZ Legal and Public Affairs says the company is really pleased with the end result.

“The tracks are the result of extensive work with DOC and iwi. It’s a great addition to the local track network, as well as opening up the rehabilitated mine site to the public.”

Part of OceanaGold’s agreement with DOC to access the area required the company to ensure the site was restored once operations concluded in 2016. As well as removing mine infrastructure and landscaping, the area has been extensively replanted with plants grown from seed taken from the area.

OceanaGold continues to work on mine remediation and water treatment at the site while this is necessary, including maintaining and using the otherwise closed access road while this work is underway.

Visit DOC’s website to find out more about the Globe Progress Mine tracks.