Block Offer 2013 consultation now closed
Consultation with iwi and councils with an interest in the areas proposed for Block Offer 2013 closed on 30 January 2013.
Submissions are now being considered by officials. A final decision on the make-up of the tender is expected to be announced in April. Iwi and councils will be informed of decisions made in respect of tender blocks.
Permits are planned to be awarded by the end of 2013.
Once analysis has been completed and the final tender areas determined, New Zealand and international companies will then be invited to tender for petroleum exploration permits.
Applications will be evaluated based on a number of criteria including the applicants' corporate standing, technical and financial capability, risk management practices, operating experience and proposed work programme.
Land listed under Schedule 4 of the Crown Minerals Act 1991 and World Heritage Areas are excluded from Block Offer 2013.