Fonterra’s subsidiary Glencoal plans to open a new coal mine on Auckland’s doorstep, at Mangatawhiri. They are calling the mine Mangatangi Mine (Mangatangi is the area neighbouring Mangatawhiri but not the actual location of the site).
The coal is intended to be used in boilers at three Fonterra plants for milk powder production. However, the extra energy cost of using sustainably-sourced local woodchips would increase the bulk price of powder by only a few cents per kilo.
Resource consent hearings were held in August-September 2013.
The local community is strongly opposed to this mine, citing concerns about coal dust, the health of their children, the integrity of their water and a desire to live sustainably.
Ironically, the extraction of coal is the worst contributor to climate change, which is already bringing more droughts and extreme weather – hurting the very farmers Fonterra represents.
Site of proposed mine.
Stage plan for the mine’s development.
Auckland Climate Action 
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