Sam Neill Faces Threats Over Opposition to New Zealand Goldmine Project
Actor Sam Neill has reported receiving threats of violence from supporters of a proposed goldmine near his farm in New Zealand's Central Otago district. Neill has publicly opposed the government's plans to expedite the Bendigo-Ophir goldmine, which is being developed by the Australian company Santana Minerals. The project, located in the Dunstan mountains, is described as a significant gold discovery but has faced strong opposition due to environmental concerns. Neill, who has operated a vineyard in the region for 30 years, argues that the mine could lead to environmental destruction and harm tourism in one of New Zealand's prime wine-producing areas. He has joined forces with the local community group Sustainable Tarras to voice these concerns. 
