The New Zealand Government has announced funding to investigate the environmental impacts of a historic mine site located on conservation land in the Marlborough Sounds. The project aims to assess risks from the former Endeavour Inlet antimony mine and develop plans for possible remediation.
The site was mined for antimony between the 1870s and early 1900s, leaving behind waste rock and potential environmental concerns. The two-year investigation will examine whether contaminants from the former mine are affecting surrounding soil, water, and ecosystems.
The Ministry for the Environment and the Department of Conservation are each providing $232,000 to support detailed site assessments and remediation planning. The work will help identify potential risks and determine whether stabilisation or safety measures are needed.
Located approximately 27 kilometres northwest of Picton, the former mine site sits near Endeavour Inlet, an area known for its natural beauty and recreational use. The region includes the Queen Charlotte Track, a popular route for hikers and cyclists, as well as nearby holiday properties, lodges, and coastal areas where shellfish are harvested.
The investigation will also consider the potential effects of rising sea levels on the site. Authorities say the project will help protect the environment, preserve heritage values, and ensure the area remains safe and accessible for future generations.
