Publications

Survey of Energy Resources 2007

Natural Gas Country Notes

The Maui offshore gas/condensate field (discovered in 1969) is the largest hydrocarbon deposit so far discovered in New Zealand: it presently accounts for 46% of the country's economically recoverable gas reserves. Effective utilisation of its gas resources has been a key factor in New Zealand's energy policy since the early 1980s.

The proved recoverable reserves reported by the New Zealand WEC Member Committee for the present Survey correspond with estimates of 'proven and probable reserves' (or P50 values) compiled by the Ministry of Economic Development, on the basis of information provided by field operators. These reserves have been assessed within the context of 'ultimate recoverable reserves' of about 159 bcm. The Member Committee also reports an estimated additional amount in place of 1 144 bcf (approximately 31 bcm), based on reserves in non-producing fields for which Petroleum Mining Permits have been granted. All fields have been appraised and all final investment decisions concerning development have been made. Five fields (Kupe, Pohokura, Tui, Maari and Turangi) are scheduled to come into production during 2006-2008.

The latest assessment of proved reserves is substantially lower than that for end-2002 (42 bcm), largely due to a major reduction in Maui's reserves. The Maui field came into commercial production in 1979 when a pipeline to the mainland was completed. Three plants were commissioned in the 1980s to use indigenous gas, producing (respectively) methanol, ammonia/urea and synthetic gasoline. Ten gas fields were in production in 2005, with Maui accounting for 57% of total output.

An extensive transmission and distribution network serves industrial, commercial and residential consumers in the North Island. Small (and declining) amounts of CNG are used in motor vehicles.