DOC Clears Sand Mining Company Over Protected Coral Allegations

The Department of Conservation has cleared McCallum Brothers of alleged Wildlife Act breaches at Pākiri Beach. The focus now shifts to their controversial Bream Bay fast-track application.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 9, 2026, 6:32 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Pākiri Investigation

The investigation was triggered by a complaint from a local resident alleging that the company continued dredging for three months after ecological consultants first discovered stony corals in March 2025.

Legal Context: Under the Wildlife Act 1953, it is an offense to disturb protected marine wildlife without authority or fail to report the accidental injury of such wildlife.

Findings: Wildlife crime team lead Dylan Swain confirmed that while protected species were present, there was no physical evidence linking the company’s specific dredging activities to the disturbance of those corals.

Outcome: No charges will be filed, and the case is now closed.

The Shift to Bream Bay