WMS Group
WMS is building an intergenerational business for the West Coast and New Zealand. Our critical minerals are key components in technologies such as wind turbines and solar panels that advance the shift toward a sustainable future.
With decades of experience in business, mining and logistics, our team is focused on unlocking globally significant untapped resources underpinned by a commitment to environmentally responsible practices.
Westland Mineral Sands Co.
West Coast Bulk Logistics
OUR NEXT PROJECT
Mananui – Hokitika
The proposed mining method focuses on extracting heavy minerals from shoreline sands within a specific area. The process begins by removing a thin layer of sandy topsoil (0.1-0.6 metres), which is saved for later use in restoring the land. A floating dredge is used to excavate the sands in a mine pond that moves progressively through the site.
The dredge operates along a 70-metre-wide path, primarily in a North-South direction. Once the ore is dredged, it is screened to remove larger particles and then sent as a slurry to a processing plant. After processing, the leftover sand (tailings) is pumped back into the mined area, gradually backfilled with processed sand, reshaped, and covered with topsoil to progressively rehabilitate the land.
Our venture is grounded by four key factors which set us apart.
Removing logistical barriers
Our secure port facility and strong transport links make our business uniquely positioned to provide an intergenerational resource for the West Coast Region, enable regional transport resilience and offer nationwide transport and logistics partnerships.
Coast wide growth
We are keeping it simple, growing the company sustainably through three distinct phases. Our success is grounded in pragmatism, achievable milestones, strong local relationships and stakeholder support.
Careful
land use
Much of our mineral sands are under productive farmland. Working collaboratively and sustainably with landowners, local authorities and the West Coast community is imperative. We are committed to ensuring we leave the land with the same agricultural production as we found it.
Diversity in our sands
The richness and mineral diversity of West Coast sand make it a highly valued resource globally. The company is adopting a multi mineral approach – a focus on all valuable minerals contained, not just ilmenite, for increased revenue notably garnet and Rare Earth Elements (REE) which were considered waste by previous explorers.
The importance of our community
Our role as a pioneer of the mineral sands industry in New Zealand is made possible through the support of the community on the West Coast – the South Island region we are proud to call home.
We are taking everyone along with us on our growth journey with comprehensive public consultation on upcoming projects and continuous conversation with mana whenua, local councils and community groups.
