New open market application pathway for gas exploration

(Image: Getty)

Thu, 25 Sep 2025

Petroleum operators in New Zealand can now apply for new prospecting and exploration permits beyond onshore Taranaki.The introduction of a new open market application pathway, in addition to the Block Offer competitive tender process, aims to facilitate the allocation of new permits.This move is intended to address the decline in New Zealand's gas reserves and restore confidence in the gas sector, which was affected by the exploration ban in 2018.The open market application process allows operators to apply for permits as soon as they are r...

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