Natural gas makes an important contribution to New Zealand’s energy supplies, providing energy security and supporting the economy in a way that helps to achieve the country’s environmental sustainability goals.
While gas continues to have a significant role in the energy sector, the source and use of gas is in transition as we move to a greater use of renewable fuel options. In the long term, gas will still be needed to support the New Zealand’s security of the energy supply.
Learn more about:
Where gas comes from
Natural gas has been produced commercially in New Zealand since 1959.
Before then, all gas sold came from coal.
There are 6 main natural gas fields in New Zealand.
- 3 are offshore: Pokohura, Maui and Kupe.
- 3 are large onshore fields: Mangahewa, Turangi and Kapuni.
Another 12 smaller onshore fields also produce gas.
All gas produced in New Zealand comes from Taranaki.
Gas is also held in storage at Ahuroa. It can store up to about 18PJ of gas.
Structure of the industry
The gas industry is divided into two main sectors: upstream and downstream. Our role and regulatory insight under the Gas Act encompasses the downstream sector.
Upstream sector
The upstream sector comprises gas exploration and production, both offshore and onshore.
This part of the sector is governed primarily through the Crown Minerals Act 1991, which is administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
Downstream sector
Our role and regulatory insight under the Gas Act encompasses the downstream sector. This comprises:
- processing facilities
- transmission distribution
- wholesale and consumer markets.
This diagram shows the structure of the industry, with the upstream sector at the top and the downstream sector.
