Clarendon Project | Kiwiphos
The Clarendon Project

A New Zealand phosphate deposit,
back in production

Located approximately 35km south of Dunedin, the Clarendon deposit has been brought back into production for the first time in 85 years.

History

What we did at Clarendon

The Clarendon phosphate deposit is located approximately 35km south of Dunedin. It was discovered in 1902 by Mr R. Ewing, with mining commencing shortly after through to 1924. Approximately 140,000 tonnes was extracted during this initial period.

Mining recommenced in the 1940s when imported phosphate was limited during World War II. Through this period (1942–1947) approximately 53,000 tonnes of phosphate was extracted, after which mining ceased in 1947.

L&M Group has undertaken an extensive programme of exploration over the past few years, including drilling, to determine the extent and quality of the phosphate deposit. The deposit has now been brought back into production, providing the first New Zealand mined phosphate available to farmers in 85 years.

The idea of locally extracting phosphate for the farms of New Zealand instead of importing largely from Morocco is still a novel one, particularly from a supply security perspective. Resources conference, Auckland
1902
Deposit discovered by Mr R. Ewing. Mining commences.
1924
Initial mining period ends. Approximately 140,000 tonnes extracted between 1902 and 1924.
1940s
Mining recommences during WWII when imports were limited. Approximately 53,000 tonnes extracted between 1942 and 1947, after which mining ceased.
Post 1940s
No mining in the area for over 80 years.
Recent years
L&M Group undertakes extensive exploration programme including drilling to determine extent and quality of the deposit.
2026
Mining commences. First crushed product. New Zealand mined phosphate available to farmers again.
Project imagery

From exploration to first product

A look at the Clarendon site, from the original Ewing facilities through to L&M Group exploration and the first crushed Kiwiphos product.

L&M Group exploration drilling
L&M Group exploration drilling at the Clarendon deposit
Phosphate exposed for mining
Phosphate exposed for mining
Awaiting crushing
Material awaiting crushing
Crushing operation
Crushing operation
First crushed product
First crushed product, 2026

Want to know more?

Find out about the Kiwiphos products available from the Clarendon deposit, or get in touch with the team directly.

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