The Wafi‑Golpu mine (also referred to as the Wafi‑Golpu project) is a proposed copper‑gold mining operation located in the Madang Province of Papua New Guinea. The development project comprises two adjacent mineralised zones – the Wafi and Golpu deposits – situated in the central highlands of the country, approximately 150 km inland from the coastal town of Madang.
Ownership and operatorship
The project is organised as a joint venture between New Crest Mining Limited, an Australian‑based public company, which holds a majority interest (70 %) and functions as the project operator, and K92 Mining Ltd, a Papua New Guinea‑registered company, which holds the remaining 30 % interest.
Resource estimates
The most recent publicly disclosed technical reports (as of 2023) provide a combined indicated and inferred resource of several hundred million tonnes of ore, containing copper grades of approximately 0.8 % and gold grades near 0.5 g/t. These figures are subject to revision pending further drilling, metallurgical testing, and economic evaluation.
Project development
Exploration of the Wafi and Golpu deposits began in the early 2000s, with surface sampling identifying significant copper and gold anomalies. Feasibility studies undertaken by the joint‑venture partners have evaluated open‑pit mining methods, conventional crushing and grinding circuits, and conventional flotation for copper concentrate production, alongside gold recovery via cyanidation. As of the latest available information, the project remains at the pre‑production stage, with environmental impact assessments, permitting processes, and financing arrangements under active consideration.
Economic and strategic significance
If brought into operation, the Wafi‑Golpu mine is expected to contribute several hundred thousand tonnes of copper and tens of thousands of ounces of gold annually, enhancing Papua New Guinea’s status as a major copper‑gold producer and providing economic benefits through employment, royalties, and infrastructure development in the region.
Environmental and social context
The project area lies within a region characterised by tropical rainforest and a mix of rural communities. The joint venture has engaged in community consultation and has undertaken baseline environmental studies to address potential impacts on water resources, biodiversity, and local livelihoods. Compliance with Papua New Guinea’s mining legislation and international best practice standards is a prerequisite for project approval.
Current status
As of the latest reports (2024), the Wafi‑Golpu mine has not yet commenced commercial production. The joint venture continues to advance the project through further drilling, metallurgical testwork, and negotiations with government authorities regarding mining licences and environmental approvals. The timeline for a definitive decision on construction and operation remains contingent upon the outcomes of these ongoing activities.