NZ Northland exploration permits granted FIVE new exploration permits have been awarded to three companies to scout for metallic minerals in New Zealand's Northland. The companies are Auckland-based Tai Tokerau Minerals, which was set up specifically to apply for the permits; Waimatenui Exploration, whose directors and shareholders are Northland residents who own a large portion of the land in the application area; and Australian company De Grey Mining. Tai Tokerau Minerals has been granted permits to explore two blocks of land northeast of Kerikeri, De Grey has permits for two blocks east of Kawakawa, and Waimatenui Exploration has one permit for an area east of the Waipoua Forest. They were chosen from 11 bids received by New Zealand Petroleum & Minerals in a tender dubbed "Northland 2012." Each company has been granted a five-year exploration permit, which could be extended for up to 10 years, although there is no guarantee they will eventually mine in the area. The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment estimates the companies will spend $NZ7 million ($A5.94 million) in the first three years of exploration, reaching $NZ13 million over five years. MBIE says it is too early to know what the benefit to the region could be, as exploration is the first step to determining the value of Northland's mineral deposits. It is not yet known how many people the projects will employ, but MBIE says employment and spending by workers provide the greatest economic impact from mining operations. Northland's minerals production is currently dominated by limestone, clay, aggregate and sand. BusinessNZ chief executive Phil O'Reilly says the announcement is a positive development for growing Northland's economy.