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Oil and gas
Oil and gas (petroleum) are important to the New Zealand economy. Oil is already a major export earner for the country, and gas is an important input into our domestic economy.
The government wants New Zealand to be a highly attractive global destination for petroleum exploration and production investment, so that we can develop the full potential of our petroleum resources. Significant discoveries will help boost New Zealand’s foreign earnings and domestic gas supplies.
The government is focused on striking a balance between protecting the environment and economic development. It is important that all petroleum exploration and production activities have rigorous environmental and safety controls to manage risks, prevent harm to people and to minimise effects on the environment.
- Read the New Zealand Energy Strategy.
- Read about energy development and the environment.
Petroleum Action Plan
The aim of the eight actions of the Petroleum Action Plan is to maximise the gains from the responsible development of New Zealand’s petroleum resources.
Petroleum expert reports
These reports were commissioned to gain a better understanding of New Zealand's petroleum resources.
Review of the Crown minerals regime
Action 6 of the Petroleum Action Plan: We are reviewing the legislation that governs how Crown-owned minerals are allocated and managed. This review will have several phases over 2011-2012, starting with a discussion document.
Improving information on petroleum reserves
Action 4 of the Petroleum Action Plan: the government consulted on options for improving information provision in 2010. This action is being progressed through the review of the Crown minerals regime.
Offshore petroleum health, safety and environmental (HSE) legislation review
Action 8 of the Petroleum Action Plan: completed in 2010, progress on review recommendation is being made through a number of initiatives.
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