Source: New Zealand Government
Enzed Energy, the first explorer to be awarded a new petroleum exploration permit since the repeal of the offshore exploration ban, has lodged a second application targeting the promising Toutouwai prospect in the offshore Taranaki Basin, Resources Minister Shane Jones says.
New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals has today opened a three-month competitive process over a proposed 2400 sq km permit area centred on the Toutouwai prospect. The application was lodged by ENZ Subsidiary 2 Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Enzed Energy Pty Ltd.
“This is another positive development for New Zealand’s energy sector. Enzed Energy’s decision to pursue a second prospect demonstrates growing confidence in New Zealand’s resource potential and in the Government’s work to restoring certainty for explorers and investors,” Mr Jones says.
“It is encouraging to see companies looking beyond a single opportunity and considering further investment in our sector. That is exactly what we need if we are to unlock new resources, strengthen energy security, and support economic growth.”
Until February this year, the Toutouwai prospect was covered by an exploration permit held by a joint venture between OMV New Zealand and TotalEnergies EP Aotearoa. The Toutouwai-1 exploration well was drilled in 2020 and confirmed the presence of hydrocarbons but was subsequently plugged and abandoned due to COVID-19 restrictions at the time.
Enzed Energy has proposed a staged exploration programme, including geological and geophysical studies, resource assessments, and planning for a potential follow-up exploration well.
“Since the Government reopened petroleum exploration opportunities, eight petroleum permit applications have been publicly notified. That is a strong signal that investors are once again prepared to consider New Zealand’s resource opportunities,” Mr Jones says.
“Natural gas will remain an essential part of New Zealand’s energy system for many years to come. It supports electricity security during dry years, provides process heat for industry, and underpins economic resilience.”
Competing applications will be received until 5pm, 18 January 2027.
Applications will be assessed in accordance with the Minerals Programme for Petroleum 2025 and the requirements of the Crown Minerals Act. This includes consideration of applicants’ technical and financial capability, compliance history, and the proposed work programme.
For more information, see: Applications under the open market competitive process – New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/10/01/new-explorer-seeks-second-petroleum-permit/