3-AD006.00 SOCIAL IMPACT ASSESSMENT WAIHI NORTH PROJECT Oceana Gold New Zealand Limited WSP June 2022 43 Several organisation representatives interviewed stated that the community had been very dependent on mining, but that economic diversification has taken place in Waihi and the local area over the past few years. The tourism and hospitality sectors have expanded significantly, and this growing stream of revenue is creating a less vulnerable community. This, along with other primary economic activities such as farming and agriculture, manufacturing and retail trade, creates a more diverse and resilient local economy. Economic diversification helps to insulate businesses and the community from future economic change. As many businesses benefit from the existing mining operations, the proposed WNP does represent continued economic reliance on the mine. Given that OGNZL suppliers and other businesses in the local area are not heavily reliant on the mine, and that diversification is taking place, it is not likely that the WNP will result in increased reliance on the mine. Business resilience to a change in the economy will result in increased community stability. There is confidence amongst local businesses that they are prepared for the eventual closure of the mine. An assessment of the implications of the closure of the Waihi mining operations is not included in this SIA. The preparation of a Rehabilitation and Closure Plan has been identified as a condition of consent. This plan is required to include an assessment of any risk posed to the environment and neighbouring communities in the event of closure. Impact Description: The WNP will create community stability as a result of continued local economic investment. It is not anticipated that the proposed project will deepen reliance on mining as mine related revenue is spread widely over a large number of small companies. Economic diversification is taking place and continuation of this will insulate businesses and the community from the implications of the eventual mine closure. Impact Statement: The WNP will provide community stability during the construction and operational phase with the investment in the local economy and opportunities for increased revenue for local businesses. The proposed project is unlikely to result in the widespread deepening of reliance on the mine, as mine related revenue is largely distributed across a large number of small businesses. There is a good level of business resilience present in the local area. There may be a few businesses that respond to the increase in demand for services to support the expanded mining operations, and as a result increase their reliance on mining. The duration of the impact would be medium term over the construction and operation phase, and the probability is considered unlikely. Overall, the potential for increased business reliance on mining has been assessed to be of low significance. It is recommended that there be a regular interface between OGNZL and the business community to ensure open and transparent communication can take place and any business-related issues can be raised and addressed. Mitigation: • Regular interface between OGNZL and business community
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