Mineral Lands.

New Zealand is rich in minerals, and mining for coal and gold are established industries. Care is taken not to part with land supposed or believed to contain these minerals by sale or otherwise; and any land which is deemed to be auriferous or argentiferous, or which may be required for coal-mining purposes, may be resumed by the Government on payment of compensation, which is limited to the value of the surface-soil and improvements of a substantial character.

The Act also provides that when any mineral, mineral oil, metal, or valuable stone is known to exist on Crown lands the surface may only be leased in perpetuity, and under no other tenure, and the right of entrance upon such land is reserved to all persons lawfully engaged in working the minerals.

Leases to mine for coal, gold, and other minerals are granted under other Acts.