Minerals and petroleum

Minerals are the building blocks of modern-day society. New Zealand’s geology means we have a varied mineral endowment, including minerals that enable new technologies and support our clean energy transition. The strategic and responsible development of our natural resources presents a significant opportunity to grow New Zealand's economy through increased trade, productivity, and regional development.

In this section

Minerals and petroleum strategies for New Zealand

The government’s minerals and petroleum strategies set the policy direction and priorities for the New Zealand minerals sector.

New Zealand’s Critical Minerals List

The Government has finalised a Critical Minerals List to identify minerals essential to New Zealand’s economy and technological needs, including clean energy and international trade. New Zealand’s Critical Minerals List will be reviewed periodically by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment to ensure it is fit for purpose.

Tui Project: decommissioning the Tui oil field

The NZ Government is managing the decommissioning of the Tui oil field assets in the wake of the financial problems affecting the permit operator Tamarind Taranaki Ltd.

New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals website

The government regulator that manages New Zealand's Crown minerals estate​.