The forum, at the Otago Museum's Hutton Lecture Theatre, dealt with the long-term future of mining and the implications of mining in Otago and Southland.
Central Otago Mayor Malcolm Macpherson, poet Brian Turner, geological consultant Barry Douglas, and Coal Association of New Zealand chairman Chris Baker were invited panellists, and were given 10 minutes each to share their point of view on mining.
Dr Macpherson said Central Otago had a long history of mining, which began 150 years ago. He believed the Resource Management Act provided a level of certainty around mitigating the effects of mining, and the community should put their faith in it.
Mr Turner acknowledged he knew little about lignite mining, but said the stripping of natural resources in New Zealand could not go on for too much longer.
"How much change can a place stand before it losses its essence?"
Dr Douglas, whose research has identified Central Otago lignite resources, pointed out areas where lignite could be mined in the future.
Mr Baker said it was important to develop lignite resources because it would help the Government afford new schools and hospitals, and reduce government debt.
While the speakers were informative, the question-and-answer session at the end left many less than satisfied.
Many asked questions about plans for mining operations in Central Otago, which remain potential rather than probable.
