Austral Pacific Acquires Seismic in Offshore Canterbury and Onshore Taranaki

Austral Pacific Energy (NZ) Ltd has recently completed a 2D seismic survey in offshore Canterbury Basin, acreage PEP 38258, south of Christchurch.

The 481km Whaler marine 2D survey finished on April 21. This is designed to infill the existing seismic coverage over the Whaler, Caravel and Coracle prospects.

Following interpretation of the data, it is anticipated that Whaler prospect will be matured to drillable status, Austral Pacific said.

Austral Pacific is operator and holds a 75% interest in the 10,950 sq km permit with TAG Oil (NZ) Ltd holding the remaining 25% interest.

In addition, Austral Pacific is undertaking a 3D seismic survey in Taranaki. The Brecon 3D survey covers an area containing the Cheal oil and Cardiff gas fields in PEP 38738-01/02.

Acquisition of seismic data has commenced and is anticipated to take about five weeks. Following processing of the field data, results from the survey will be available in late July.

The interpreted results of the survey will be used to optimise bottom hole locations for the Cheal development wells, and to further define and delineate drilling targets in the permit areas at both the Mt. Messenger (Cheal) and Kapuni (Cardiff) levels.

Sources: Two Austral Pacific Energy releases.