3 Jun 2011

New oil permit rules 'will hit prices'

8:56 am on 3 June 2011

An organisation representing oil and gas exploration says proposed environmental controls in New Zealand waters will help push up the price of petroleum products.

Environment Minister Nick Smith has announced a bill that would require companies to apply for exploration consent through the Environmental Protection Authority.

Some activities, such as drilling for oil and gas, will require an assessment of environmental impacts.

Petroleum Exploration and Production Association executive officer John Pfahlert told Morning Report that the proposed rules are similar to those imposed by other countries.

He says tighter controls mean more costs for companies and a higher end price for oil and gas at the pump.