Climate Activists Brave Rain in Aerial Coal Bucket Protest

Two climate activists from Climate Liberation Aotearoa have taken a dramatic stand against coal mining by occupying an aerial coal bucket high above the Stockton Mine in the rain. Their protest aims to halt the expansion of Bathurst Resources Limited's operations on the Stockton and Denniston plateaux.

Despite the persistent downpour, the protesters, Rach Andrews and another unnamed individual, have managed to create a waterproof shelter and are staying warm in the cramped space. Andrews described the situation as “dry and cozy” this morning and expressed confidence in continuing the protest for “a bit longer.”

“We're not coming down today,” Andrews said. “While Bathurst continues to endanger the beautiful life on Denniston, there's going to be opposition. We're here to show strong opposition.”

The protesters have been provided with energy bars and homemade dehydrated meals, and they are preparing for a potential legal battle. Andrews, who was among nine protesters charged with trespass in April, has pleaded not guilty along with six others.

“If a charge and having to go to court is the consequence—it's worth taking to reduce the harm for future generations and life on the planet,” she said.

Andrews confirmed that the next protest, scheduled for August 8, will target at least seven branches of ANZ, the last major bank in New Zealand without a plan to phase out fossil fuel financing.

Bathurst Resources CEO Richard Tacon said the company's main concern is the safety of the protesters. Tacon added that Bathurst had notified the police, WorkSafe, and the Department of Conservation about the trespassing, and they are working with authorities to secure the situation.

Bathurst Resources, which employs around 675 people in New Zealand, is preparing an environmental assessment for the Buller Plateaux Continuation Project. If approved, the project will extend mining operations at the Stockton mine by an additional 25 years.

The protest highlights a growing divide between environmental activists and mining companies, with the former advocating for climate action and the latter pushing for economic growth. As the debate continues, the activists remain resolute in their stand, even as they face potential legal consequences.