1The implications of NZ's latest gold mining boom - balancing economic gains and environmental loss. "Assignment" examines the Coeur D'Alene mine (Golden Cross) near Waihi on the Coromandel; Macraes mine in North Otago; and plans for a new Macraes mine near Reefton. Who is responsible for the mess if gold mines close - the American experience in Idaho and Colorado (the Summitville mine).