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.