Factsheets
Factsheets for industry about New Zealand's petroleum and minerals.
In New Zealand the prospecting, exploration and mining of minerals and coal is managed every step of the way. This guide gives an overview of the process to look for and develop Crown-owned minerals and coal, on land or at sea.
Mining can be undertaken in a number of different ways and on a variety of scales. This guide looks at how different methods and equipment are needed depending on the resource being mined and its location.
People are free to protest on the water as they are on land – provided they do not interfere with structures or vessels involved in lawful petroleum and minerals activities. This fact sheet explains the provisions and penalties under the Crown Minerals Act 2013.
Unlawful interference with offshore petroleum and minerals activities report [PDF 2MB]
Petroleum exploration and production companies operating in New Zealand are required to comply with the Health and Safety at Work (Petroleum Exploration and Extraction) Regulations 2016. These provide for the management of hazards associated with petroleum exploration and extraction activities, and are enforced by WorkSafe.
A petroleum or minerals permit does not give its holder the right to go onto any land. This is different to many international jurisdictions, where the granting of a permit provides a right of access to land.
Hydraulic fracturing, commonly known as 'fracking', makes it possible to extract oil or gas from dense rock. This fact sheet explains how government agencies manage hydraulic fracturing in New Zealand.