Coal mining in "Happy Valley".

If you are over Westport way I can recommend an overnight trip or daywalk to "Happy Valley". Happy Valley is an unofficial name for an interfluve at the head of the Waimangaroa River. It is to the east of the Stockton coal mine. Solid Energy, the State-owned enterprise, has a resource consent to start a new open cast mine, in the area. The Save Happy Valley Coalition are trying to prevent the mine from going ahead. There is an occupation camp that is well set up and has cooking, accommodation, a range of fresh and dried foods and condiments. See for yourself why there is a very public campaign to conserve this corner of New Zealand. See http://www.happyvalley.org.nz