Upcoming review of New Zealand’s royalty regime for minerals

The review will assess whether current royalty settings deliver a fair financial return to the Crown. It will also explore alternative approaches to ensure the regime remains fit for purpose.

MBIE expects the final economic report and supporting modelling to be delivered in mid-2026. A discussion document outlining findings and next steps will follow.

Decisions on any changes to minerals royalty settings will not be made before the 2026 General Election. The findings of the review will inform MBIE’s policy advice to the 2026-2029 elected Government.

A discussion document for consultation is expected in 2026 that will provide an opportunity to provide feedback on the review.

The need for a review

Our current minerals royalty regime was last comprehensively reviewed in 2012, resulting in regulations introduced in 2013. Since then, market conditions have changed significantly. The rising prices of gold and other minerals, together with increased industry interest in exploring and mining in New Zealand, means it’s important that we review our settings to ensure the Crown continues to receive a fair financial return.

Royalty rates of current mining permits

A discussion document for consultation is expected in 2026 that will provide an opportunity to provide feedback on the review. No decisions on changes to minerals royalty settings will be made before the 2026 General Election. The review findings, together with consultation feedback, will inform MBIE’s policy advice to the incoming Government for the 2026–2029 term.

Proposals are due by 5pm, 16 January 2026.

Interested suppliers can access more information and make submissions via the Government Electronic Tenders Service.

Review of New Zealand's Minerals Royalty Regime — Government Electronic Tenders Service (GETS)