This Content Is Only For Subscribers
A Christchurch man has been fined $800 by the Department of Conservation (DOC) after attempting to remove artefacts from the historic Denniston Mine near Westport in June 2025.
The artefacts included metal wheels, axles and chain associated with the mine.
The Denniston area is a popular tourist attraction in Buller, showcasing the old mine site including the well-known Denniston Incline. Many weathered artefacts remain on site, hinting at living and working conditions from the 1880s, when coal was first sent down the incline, until 1967, when the mine closed.
Over time many items have been stolen, prompting DOC to increase efforts to prevent further thefts through enhanced surveillance at the site. These efforts led to the identification of the man and enforcement action via an infringement notice.
The decision to issue an infringement notice rather than a harsher penalty reflects the fact the attempt to remove the items was not completed, and the artefacts were left on site.
DOC operations manager for the Buller District, Suvi Van Smit, says Denniston is classified as a Category One Historic Place.
“The site attracts visitors to Buller and holds a significant piece of New Zealand’s mining history,” she says. “The Denniston Incline is considered a work of engineering genius and the artefacts at the site help tell the story of what took place there.
“I encourage all people to leave places like these as they find them and avoid any potentially embarrassing and costly interactions with our compliance team or the Police. Denniston is a fantastic place to get out naturing, so please treat it with the respect it deserves.”
