(1)
The holder of an exploration permit may apply to the Minister, in accordance with section 36(1) to (4), for an extension to the duration of the permit (an appraisal extension) so as to appraise the extent and characteristics of a discovery and the Minister may grant an extension for that purpose for any period the Minister considers necessary, up to a maximum of 4 years.
(2)
However, the Minister may grant an appraisal extension under subsection (1) only if the Minister is satisfied that—
the permit holder has made a discovery that has the potential to lead to the granting of a mining permit; and
the current specified duration of the exploration permit does not allow sufficient time to appraise the discovery; and
the work programme in relation to the appraisal is adequate.
(3)
If the Minister grants an appraisal extension, it must be restricted to the land in the permit to which the Minister determines it is likely that the discovery relates.
(4)
A permit holder granted an appraisal extension under subsection (1) may apply to the Minister once only for a further appraisal extension, and subsection (1) applies as if the reference to an appraisal extension were a reference to a further appraisal extension.
Section 35A: inserted, on 24 May 2013, by section 27 of the Crown Minerals Amendment Act 2013 (2013 No 14).