Oil, Gas and Mineral activity
Agency roles in offshore oil, gas and mineral activity in New Zealand
Learn about offshore oil, gas and mineral activities in New Zealand’s offshore waters and the role of different agencies in regulating these operations and responding to incidents.
Safety zones and precautionary areas
To reduce the risk of a maritime incident and resulting marine pollution, some safety zones and a precautionary area have been established around New Zealand.
Health and safety
Cross-cutting health and safety information for commercial operators.
New Zealand’s offshore waters
New Zealand’s offshore waters include the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), Continental Shelf (CS), and Territorial Waters:
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The EEZ is the area from 12 to 200 nautical miles (nm) offshore.
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The CS is the area where New Zealand’s submerged landmass extends beyond the EEZ. New Zealand has one of the largest CS areas in the world, covering more than four million square kilometres, more than 20 times the size of New Zealand.
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New Zealand’s Territorial Waters are the marine waters that extend from the coast out to the 12 nm limit.
Image showing New Zealand's 12 nautical mile limit
Safety zones and precautionary areas
Description: To reduce the risk of a maritime incident and resulting marine pollution, some safety zones and a precautionary area have been established around New Zealand. You can also read about submarine cable and pipeline protections on this page.
Owners of offshore installations must also hold a Certificate of Insurance as evidence of their financial ability to implement their OIOSCP.