NZ Mining Claims Registry
View active mining permits across New Zealand. Know where you can't fossick and discover opportunities when permits expire.
Do Not Trespass on Active Claims
Mining permits are legal documents. Entering a permitted area without the holder's permission is trespassing and can result in prosecution. The red zones on our map show these areas.
Understanding Mining Permits
What the Red Zones Mean
Areas shown in red on our map are under active mining or prospecting permits. These are off-limits for recreational fossicking unless you have the permit holder's explicit written permission.
What the Green Zones Mean
Green areas are designated public fossicking areas managed by NZPAM/DOC. You can pan, sluice, and detect in these areas without any permit — just follow the rules.
Search the Official Registry
NZPAM maintains the official, searchable permit database. You can look up specific permits, see holder details, expiry dates, and exact boundaries.
Open NZPAM Permit MapWant Your Own Mining Permit?
If you're serious about gold prospecting beyond the public areas, you can apply for your own prospecting or mining permit. The process involves:
- Identifying unoccupied land (most good areas are already claimed)
- Preparing a work programme for NZPAM
- Securing land access agreements
- Paying application fees ($500-$2,000+)
💡 Permit Transfer Opportunities
When permits expire or holders want to exit, there are sometimes opportunities to take over existing claims. This saves the work of starting from scratch.
Interested in being notified about permit transfers?
We're building an alert system. Drop your email below to be first in line.