The Resources Minister says a setback for expansion of the country's largest gold mine could result in the loss of up to a thousand jobs.
Central Otago's Macraes gold mine applied for a permit under the Wildlife Act to clear vegetation on its site in a bid to expand its operation.
Last month the Department of Conservation declined it, stating the company hadn't made clear how it would relocate more than 10 thousand lizards.
Shane Jones told Heather du Plessis-Allan the lizards are as common as acne on a teenager.
He says they're scattered throughout Otago, and farmers don't need special permits when carrying out work on their land.
LISTEN ABOVE

Richard Arnold: US Correspondent on Donald Trump's continued demands to acquire Greenland
04:17

Mike's Minute: Election issues are already popping up
01:52

Aimee McCammon: Pic's Peanut Butter CEO on the company reaching 41% market share in NZ
03:05