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Central Otago winegrowers have been invited to provide comment on a proposed gold mining project as part of the Government’s fast-track consenting process.
The Central Otago Winegrowers Association has been formally invited by the expert panel assessing the Bendigo–Ophir Gold Project to submit feedback on the proposal.
The invitation recognises the significance of Central Otago’s viticulture sector and ensures growers will have an opportunity to present their views through the fast-track process.
In earlier correspondence with the panel and the Environmental Protection Authority, COWA raised concerns about potential impacts on vineyard land, water quality and the long-term sustainability of the region’s wine industry.
The association says risks from dust, contaminants and other environmental factors could affect vine health and potentially damage the reputation of Central Otago wines in international markets.
COWA has engaged independent technical experts to assess the potential effects of the project, emphasising the need for precaution and robust scientific analysis.
Central Otago Winegrowers Association general manager Carolyn Murray says the opportunity to comment directly to the expert panel is an important step.
“Our members take their role as custodians of this landscape seriously. We welcome the opportunity to present expert evidence and ensure that the potential implications for viticulture are fully understood before any decisions are made,” Carolyn says.
COWA says vineyards represent long-term and often intergenerational investments, and any impacts on the region’s environmental integrity or wine reputation could have lasting consequences for growers and the wider regional economy.
The association says it will engage with the panel to ensure the interests of growers, vineyard workers and the Central Otago community are represented during the assessment process.
