New Zealand Calls Time on New Offshore Gas Exploration
New Zealand’s newly elected government has put an end to any new oil and gas exploration offshore. “There will be no further offshore oil and gas exploration permits granted,” said the prime minister Jacinda Ardern April 12. New Zealand’s minister for energy and resources, Megan Woods, said this year’s block offer will be limited to onshore acreage in Taranaki.
Existing exploration and mining rights will be protected, Ardern said. “There are 31 oil and gas exploration permits currently active, 22 are offshore. These permits cover an area of 100,000 kms2, nearly the size of the North Island, and run as far out as 2030 and could go an additional 40 years under a mining permit,” she said.
“All three of the parties in this government are agreed that we must take this step as part of our package of measures to tackle climate change. I’m grateful for the support of New Zealand First in ensuring the transition away from fossil fuels projects jobs and helps regions equip themselves for the future. I also thank the Green Party for their continued advocacy for action on climate change,” she said.
In each of the last two years only one permit has been granted for offshore oil and gas exploration, Ardern said, adding that it does not affect current reserves or the potential finds made from current exploration permits. “As the industry itself admits, there is good potential for more to be found,” she said.
“This is a responsible step which provides certainty for businesses and communities that rely on fossil fuels. We’re strike the right balance for New Zealand – we’re protecting existing industry, and protecting future generations from climate change,” she said.