Before You Apply
Mining permits in NZ are serious legal documents. You'll be responsible for environmental compliance, reporting, and potentially rehabilitation bonds. This guide is for information only — consult NZPAM directly.
Understanding NZ Mining Rights
In New Zealand, the Crown owns all gold, silver, and petroleum — even if it's on your private land. To extract minerals commercially, you need a permit from New Zealand Petroleum & Minerals (NZPAM).
There are two main types of permits for gold:
Prospecting Permit
Allows you to explore and sample an area. You can take small quantities to test, but not for commercial sale.
Fee: ~$500 - $2,000
Mining Permit
The full permit for commercial extraction. Requires proven mineral deposits and detailed work plans.
Fee: $2,000+ (plus bonds)
The Application Process
- 1Check the Permit Map
Use NZPAM's online permit map to find areas that aren't already under permit. Most of the best ground is taken.
- 2Prepare Your Work Programme
NZPAM wants to see what you'll actually do — sampling methods, equipment, timeline, and environmental management.
- 3Secure Land Access
A mineral permit doesn't give you land access. You need separate agreements with DOC, councils, or private landowners.
- 4Submit Application
Lodge online through the NZPAM Minerals Portal. Processing takes 2-6 months typically.
Can You "Buy" an Existing Claim?
Technically, you can't buy a claim outright like in the US or Australia. But you can:
- Transfer a permit — With NZPAM approval, permits can be transferred between parties
- Joint venture — Partner with an existing permit holder
- Buy the company — If a permit is held by a company, buy the company
Alternative: Trade Gold Instead
Don't want the hassle of permits and compliance? You can speculate on gold prices from home — go long when you think prices will rise, or short when they'll fall.
Open Trading Account →