Tui Mine
On 24 May 2011, Minister for the Environment Hon Dr Nick Smith announced that the Government would provide funding of $15.2 million (excluding GST) for Phase Two capital costs of the Tui Mine Remediation Project.
With this new funding, the total funding from the Crown for the Tui Mine Remediation Project will be $20.7million (excluding GST).
Waikato Regional Council and Matamata-Piako District Council are also providing funding for the Tui Mine remediation project.
The Tui Mine Remediation Project is being completed in two phases:
- Phase 1 involved preparatory work (detailed design, site establishment, access road) and the treatment of the old underground mine workings.
The old mine workings discharge contaminated water into the Tunakohoia Stream. During phase 1 these workings were partially plugged with engineered concrete bulkhead , and alkaline solution (lime) was injected into the ground to counter the strongly acidic conditions. - Phase 2 involves remediating the tailings dam area. The initial plan was to contain the tailings in a new dam built to modern standards.
It is now proposed to change the nature of the tailings so they become dry enough to play into a secure mound on the site. The mound will be properly drained and capped, and lime or cement added to prevent acid build-up.
For more information on the Tui Mine Remediation Project:
- Tui Mine Clean up overview (PDF, 4.54 MB)
- Tui Mine Clean up media release (Beehive website)
- visit the Waikato Regional Council website
Last updated: 7 July 2011
