The Coromandel Peninsula is an area of high scenic values due to the presence of the original forest cover and a coastline that is popular for recreation. Goldmining has been carried out since the late 19th century. To the south of the peninsula the Martha Mine at Waihi is still operating.[1]
Coromandel Watchdog began protests and lobbying in the 1970s against the activities of mining companies. It was instrumental in having conservation land on the Coromandel Peninsula protected under Schedule 4 of the Crown Minerals Act.
In 2009, Watchdog was reactivated after a period of inactivity. The National-led Government was proposing the removal of up to Шаблон:Convert of Coromandel land from Schedule 4. Coromandel Watchdog publicly stated that they would fight the proposal.Шаблон:Citation needed In 2010 the government confirmed that no land would be removed from Schedule 4.[2]
In 2020 the group opposed an underground gold mine proposed by OceanaGold in the Wharekirauponga bush. The area is home to the critically-endangered Archey's frog.[3] Also in 2020 the group brought a judicial review of a decision to grant permission for OceanaGold to expand mining operations near Waihi, however they lost and were ordered to pay costs.[4]