New Zealand’s Resources Minister Shane Jones has criticized film director Steven Spielberg for his involvement in a dispute over a proposed gold mine in Central Otago. Jones accused Spielberg of attempting to influence the mine’s outcome through financial contributions, a move he described as unwelcome interference.

Spielberg’s production company, Amblin Entertainment, recently made a donation to Sustainable Tarras, an environmental group opposing Santana Minerals’ Bendigo-Ophir gold mine project. The group said the donation was made in memory of the late New Zealand actor Sir Sam Neill, who passed away last month and was a prominent critic of the mining proposal. Neill, known for his role as Dr. Alan Grant in Spielberg’s Jurassic Park, had actively spoken against the project before his death.

Speaking on a local radio show, Jones expressed frustration with Spielberg’s involvement. He said the Hollywood figure had “no business spraying dough around” to influence local matters. Jones defended the mining proposal, stating that the project offered economic benefits, including well-paid jobs, increased Crown revenue, and export earnings. He described the mining site as a largely undeveloped area and dismissed opposition as coming from a "small group" resistant to economic growth opportunities in the region.

Jones also emphasized his broader support for mining development in both the South and North Islands, criticizing what he called a “lotus-eating view” held by some property owners. He argued that gold remains a valuable commodity globally and that the proposed mine could contribute significantly to New Zealand’s economy.

Santana Minerals has estimated that the Bendigo-Ophir mine could produce approximately 120,000 ounces of gold per year, create up to 300 jobs, and generate around NZ$6 billion in revenue, along with more than NZ$1 billion in taxes and royalties. However, opponents continue to voice concerns over potential environmental impacts, including effects on water resources, biodiversity, the local landscape, and the existing wine and tourism industries that underpin Central Otago’s economy.

Sustainable Tarras is currently fundraising to cover legal and expert costs as it challenges the mine’s development. The amount donated by Amblin Entertainment has not been publicly disclosed.