Supporters honour Sir Sam Neill with influx of funds to Stop Gold Mine campaign
Following the death of actor Sir Sam Neill, supporters have donated over $53,000 to a campaign opposing a gold mine in Central Otago, New Zealand. The funds will support legal and expert efforts to challenge the proposed mining project.
Why it matters
The story highlights the intersection of celebrity influence and grassroots environmental activism in local land-use disputes.
Sir Sam Neill’s death has prompted a rush of donations to the Central Otago campaign opposing a proposed gold mine, with supporters honouring the actor by backing the environmental fight he publicly championed.
Neill, 78, died on Monday night at a private hospital in Sydney, Australia, “surrounded by family”, Neill’s loved ones confirmed on social media .
A Givealittle page for the Stop Central Otago Gold Mine campaign has received a wave of new contributions since Neill’s death was announced, with many donors specifically referencing the actor and his opposition to the project.
One donor gave $20 and wrote: “I don’t normally donate but I’m doing this in honour of the legend Sam Neill. A thoroughly decent human being”.
Another donor contributed $50 with the message: “In honour of the legend Sam Neill, stop this mine”.
Yet another, with a $50 donation, wrote: “#SaveItForSam”.
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