OceanaGold has resumed mining operations in New Zealand after the government decreased the country’s Covid-19 alert level from four to three.
The new alert level meant that businesses apart from those considered to be essential services, could resume operations if they could demonstrate required safe operating practices.
OceanaGold on Tuesday said that the development of the Martha Underground mine, at Waihi, along with regional exploration activities have now resumed, while mining and processing operations have also resumed at Macraes.
All administrative staff and other employees that can work from home will continue to do so for the duration of the level three alert period, and contractors and employees with underlying health concerns will remain at home until it can be established that it is safe for them to return to work.
“We continue to recognize and support the New Zealand government’s strong action to stop the spread of Covid-19. The health and wellbeing of our workforce is paramount and the safe working practices at both the Waihi and Macraes operations align well with the government’s directives,” said OceanaGold president and CEO Michael Holmes.
“We continue to be focused on managing the near-term risks while executing on our operational plans, working with the Philippine government to renew our financial or technical assistance agreement and resume operations at Didipio, and advancing our solid pipeline of organic growth opportunities including the Martha Underground.
“Our ongoing capital investment in New Zealand will not only create long-term value for our shareholders but will also create jobs and significant regional socioeconomic benefits for New Zealand.”
With operations in New Zealand now resuming, and the Haile mine operating at full capacity, OceanaGold has reaffirmed its production guidance for 2020.
