Fast-track to where? The new law opening up New Zealand to a mining boom

Critics say the country's unique biodiversity is at risk as the government plans to boost mineral exports to $3bn by 2035Kate Selby Smith strides through the undergrowth of a track on the North Island's east coast when the bush suddenly thins to reveal a hidden treasure. "Welcome to my heaven," she says, gesturing to a bend in the Wharekirauponga stream where a jade-green swimming hole has formed among the rocks and soft green ferns. "Isn't it beautiful?"The fairytale grotto lies at the southern end of Coromandel forest park - a protected conservation area home to native flora and rare animals, including one of the world's rarest amphibians, the Archey's frog. Continue reading...