Refining NZ is finalising customer agreements before the company board makes a final decision to convert the Marsden Pt site into an import-only terminal.
The refinery's shareholders in August voted overwhelmingly for the change to go ahead due to a glut of fuel supplies globally, combined with the impact of Covid-19 on refinery output, pipeline fees and plummeting demand for fuel.
The board of directors was expected to make a final decision at the end of the third quarter, but a company spokeswoman said no date on the final sign-off has been decided as yet.
"We have now received the necessary shareholder and lender approvals, and customer agreements are now the key remaining step before a final investment decision is made by the Refining NZ board.
"At the same time, we are continuing to plan to manage this transition safely and smoothly for our workforce, our wider community, and customers, which is all the more important given the current Covid-19 disruptions.