March 15, 2026

#regional: Opposition grows to proposed sand mining project in Bream Bay

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 15, 2026

Opposition is intensifying in Northland over a proposal to extract marine sand from Bream Bay, with community leaders, iwi and environmental groups warning the project could have lasting impacts on the region’s coastal ecosystems and cultural heritage.

Green Party MP Hūhana Lyndon has joined calls for the proposal to be rejected, urging communities to stand together against the development. The project, led by Auckland-based company McCallum Brothers Ltd, is seeking approval to dredge sand from the seabed as part of a fast-track consenting process.

The company’s proposal involves extracting more than eight million cubic metres of sand from an area of seabed covering about 17 square kilometres in Bream Bay. The operation could run for up to 35 years, with dredging taking place several days a week.

Supporters of the campaign against the project say Bream Bay and the entrance to Whangārei Harbour form an important marine environment and are culturally significant to local hapū and iwi. The area is known for its abundant marine life and is also part of migration routes for whales and other species.

Environmental advocates warn large-scale seabed dredging could affect habitats, sediment patterns and fisheries that many communities rely on. There are also concerns about potential impacts on endangered wildlife and the wider coastal ecosystem.

Opponents say the proposal has sparked strong community response, with protests, petitions and public meetings drawing significant support across the region. Earlier campaigns against the project have gathered thousands of signatures from residents calling for the protection of the bay.

The issue has also raised wider debate about the Government’s fast-track consenting process for major infrastructure and resource projects. Critics argue the process risks sidelining local voices and environmental concerns while accelerating development proposals.

Community groups say they intend to continue mobilising to oppose the project and ensure that the future of Bream Bay is determined with the involvement of tangata whenua and local residents.

The sand mining proposal is now moving through the consenting process, with decisions expected to determine whether the controversial development will proceed.