A new era of goldmining began in Waihi on Wednesday, June 15 1988 when the Waihi Gold Mining Company officially opened its Martha Mine project. The historic Cornish Pumphouse on Martha Rill was the venue chosen by the company for the official proceedings which was attended by a crowd of some 600 miners, well-wishers, shareholders and officials on a cold, bleak day.

The official opening was performed by the Minister of Energy, the Hon. David Butcher, who also unveiled a bronze plaque affixed on the wall of the pumphouse. In his opening speech Mr. Butcher wished the Company and the people of Waihi "a mutually beneficial partnership."

The Waihi Gold Company’s Resident Manager, Mr. Roger Craddock, welcomed everyone stating that it was gratifying to see so many people celebrate the opening of the new venture. Australian and American representatives of the joint venture were also present and E. L. Batemans known here as Mineral Technology, had sent some over from Perth, Australia, said Mr. Craddock. A Director of Australian Consolidated Minerals, Sir Gordon Freeth, also spoke and commented on the green and beautiful countryside which he said contrasted greatly with the desert conditions which they mine in Australia.

The function and luncheon afterwards for invited guests in the Waihi Bowling Club pavilion was attended by the President of the Waihi Historical Society, Mrs. Margaret Wells, as well as the President and Secretary of the Waihi Arts Centre and Museum, Mrs. Hilary Timanus and Mr. E. W. Grant, who all received official invitations from the Waihi Gold Mining Company.

Relics of the Old Martha Mine

One big wheel to another – project manager Roger Craddock with the poppet head wheel outside the Waihi Gold Company’s office.	The cage from behind No. 6 Shaft now on display outside the Waihi Museum.	At the request of the Historic Places Trust, entry to the inside of the Pumphouse has been provided by the Waihi Gold mining Company Limited. The plaque attached to the landmark building. Part of the crowd gathered round the Cornish Pumphouse at the official re-opening of the Martha Mine. Photos Courtesy Waihi Leader