Ballance looks at temporary closure due to gas issues

Kelvin Wickham says it is tough finding gas at a viable price for Ballance. (Image: NZME)

Thu, 07 Aug 2025

Ballance Agri-Nutrients may stop making nitrogen urea at its Taranaki plant for four months because it has been unable to secure a long-term gas supply at an affordable price, says chief executive Kelvin Wickham.Ballance has informed its 120 staff at the Kapuni plant that a temporary shutdown is imminent due to its inability to renew or replace the current contract, which expires on Sept 30.Wickham said the shutdown was one of the options on the table, but production may continue if Ballance can secure affordable gas on a short-term contract. H...

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