‘Dark day for New Zealand’: outcry as bill to fast-track controversial mining projects is approved

Critics and opposition parties vow to oppose major projects they fear could damage the environment

A new law that could see controversial mining and infrastructure projects fast-tracked for approval across New Zealand has sparked protests in parliament and vows from critics and opposition parties to stop proposals that they fear will wreak havoc on the environment.

The coalition government's Fast-Track Approvals legislation passed into law on Tuesday, despite thousands of public submissions opposing it.