‘We, members of the Nelson Tasman community and concerned citizens from across New Zealand, ask that the application by Steatite Ltd for access to mine in the Cobb be declined.  We do not believe that an open cast bench mine, in full view of the entrance to the Cobb Valley is an appropriate location, nor do we believe that the Cobb is an appropriate place for an industrial activity of this magnitude.  We value the Cobb as a place of peace and solitude, an easily accessed location where nature still functions as an intact ecosystem.  We value the steatite area as a unique ecosystem (plants, birds and rocks), and too precious to mine.  

More information here: http://savethecobb.wordpress.com/