Making New Zealand - Mining

Documentary series Making New Zealand tells the story of how Aotearoa was developed by early settlers. In this episode from season two, the history of mining is explored, starting with the discovery of gold in the mid 1800s, through to coal mining, natural gas extraction and oil drilling. The significance of the Otago gold rush is explored, which both "kickstarted New Zealand's economy" and motivated huge immigration to the South Island — particularly early settlers from China. Also covered: the 1908 coal miners' strike, the Denniston mining community, and the Strongman and Pike River disasters.   

...in 1852 Auckland businessmen were concerned about the amount of people leaving New Zealand — and particularly miners — going to the Victorian gold fields. And so they offered 500 pounds reward for anybody that could find payable gold in the near vicinity of Auckland.

– Historian Doreen McLeod, early in this documentary

Key Cast & Crew

Vincent Burke

Executive Producer

Swami Hansa

Cinematographer

Laurie Clarke

Producer

Ben Vanderpoel

Sound Recordist

Mark Clare

Narrator

Kathleen Mantel

Director