Permits

Summary

The New Zealand Government owns approximately half of all New Zealand’s coal resources. Anyone wanting to prospect, explore or mine the Government’s coal resources must obtain a permit from New Zealand Petroleum & Minerals under the Crown Minerals Act 1991. An exception, as it relates to prospecting permits, is that New Zealand Petroleum & Minerals can permit over privately owned coal as well.

Frequently asked questions...

What is a permit?

A permit is permission granted by the crown to prospect, explore or mine for petroleum in a defined area. The New Zealand Petroleum & Minerals business unit administers the permitting regime through the powers granted under the Crown Minerals Act 1991.

What are the different types of permits?

New Zealand Petroleum & Minerals issues permits to prospect, explore or mine petroleum under the Crown Minerals Act 1991.

• View key information for the types of permits available
• Restrictions on minerals and coal prospecting permits

How do I apply for a permit?

Click here for more information on applying for a permit.

Where are the application forms?

Click here to view the updated application forms as re-writable PDFs.

How much does it cost?

Click here to view the costs for permit applications and changes and annual permit fees.

What are my obligations?

Read more about the requirements and procedures for explorers and miners in New Zealand.

What about land access?

The granting of a permit under the Crown Minerals Act 1991 does not give the permit holder an automatic right of access to any land. Find out more...

Survey requirements (Boundary definition standards)

Learn more about survey and spatial standards for mineral and coal permits.

Relevant legislation

The Crown Minerals Act 1991 is accompanied by other important pieces of legislation.
Find out more...