New Zealand Starts Oil and Gas Block Offer 2014 Talks

New Zealand’s Energy and Resources Minister Simon Bridges on Wednesday announced the start of the Block Offer 2014 process for awarding oil and gas exploration permits.

“Consultation now begins with iwi and local authorities in the areas being proposed for onshore and offshore exploration,” said Bridges. “This is an important first step in the Block Offer process and I encourage iwi and local authorities to take part. Their feedback ensures that any areas of sensitivity are carefully considered before the 2014 tender round is finalised.”

Five proposed offshore areas and three proposed onshore areas, covering a total area of nearly 434,000 sq kms, will be consulted on for Block Offer 2014.

“The Government is committed to promoting and managing exploration interest in a safe and responsible way. While exploration won’t necessarily be undertaken in all the blocks on offer, it’s important to find out what’s there and use the information to develop New Zealand’s untapped resource wealth,” Bridges said.

The consultation period for Block Offer 2014 runs from 19 September to 14 November.