With mining such an important part of the economy, the Green Party says it will review its policies to potentially approve of some mining.
The party's co-leader Russel Norman told The Nation mining is "part of life" in New Zealand's economy.
"You can't escape it," he said.
Dr Norman says the Greens will discuss the role of mining in the economy.
While the Greens are opposed to new coal mines, the party is not opposed to new mines for other minerals.
"I mean, obviously you've gotta look at the localised environmental impact of a particular mining operation," he said.
"It's case by case."
Dr Norman says the Greens will remain opposed to new coal mines and drilling for fossil fuels.
NZN