Gas exploration off east coast and Northland opens up

The Government is seeking oil and gas exploration proposals for 66,000sq km of ocean off the east coast and Northland.

Energy Minister Gerry Brownlee said yesterday that it was offering two exploration permits over the Raukumara basin northeast of East Cape and six blocks west of Northland.

Bidding for both areas close on January 28, 2010. Permits will be granted for five years and must at a minimum include seismic studies and a commitment to drill at least one well within four years.