18044 (2026). Lan Pham to the Minister for Tourism and Hospitality

Written Question

Published date: 27 May 2026

Metadata

Document type:	Written Question
Parliament number:	54
Question number:	18044 (2026)
Question asked:	30 Apr 2026
Member asking:	Lan Pham
Portfolio:	Minister for Tourism and Hospitality
Minister replying:	Hon Louise Upston
Answer received:	20 May 2026
Status:	Question Answered
Reply type:	Reply
Document ID:	WQ_18044_2026
Document guid:	9416dc10-091e-4523-b8db-11b02a5312e6

18044 (2026). Lan Pham to the Minister for Tourism and Hospitality: What is the Minister's opinion of the risk of the proposed Bendigo-Ophior Gold Project and its associated permanent tailings dam, to the 'Southern Way' campaign to attract tourists to Central Otago's outstanding landscapes, clean rivers, and world-class wine country?

Hon Louise Upston: As this application is currently under consideration under the Fast-track Approvals Act 2024 (the Act) consideration of the application by an expert panel with the relevant skills and experience is now well underway. Neither the Minister for Infrastructure, nor I, have any decision-making role in the process. If the expert panel decides to grant an application, it can also recommend conditions to ensure that any potential adverse effects are managed appropriately.