Economics students investigate the impact of mining in Waihī
Posted on April 09, 2026
Level 3 Economics students from Macleans College visited Waihī in the Hauraki District, for their annual field trip focused on the local gold mining industry.
The excursion offered students a firsthand look at the economic, environmental and social impacts of mining in the region.
Upon arrival, students donned high-visibility jackets, goggles and helmets before walking to the edge of the open-cast gold mine. There, they began an investigation into both the positive and negative effects of mining on Waihī and surrounding districts. The company’s Education Officer guided the group through the two and a half hour tour, providing insightful commentary and engaging demonstrations.
Gold has been mined in the Waihī area since the 1800s. Today, the Waihī Gold Mine is operated by OceanaGold, which has produced over 700,000 ounces of gold since 2015. The company currently operates the Martha Underground mine and is advancing the nearby Waihī North Project. The operation employs more than 400 people, contributing significantly to the local economy.
The visit concluded with a late lunch in Waihī township, where students enjoyed the award-winning pies from a local bakery and admired vintage vehicles participating in the annual Beach Hop festival, held in Whangamata.
