Oil, gas and minerals

Southland has seen increased interest from energy related industries eager to explore opportunties within the region.

Renewed interest in the Great South Basin has seen exploration parties complete their initial seismic activity in February 2008.

Further to oil and gas exploration, Southland holds 72% of New Zealand's recoverable coal and lignites reserves, and this is taking the interest of several companies who plan to convert the ligninte to high energy diesel liquid, using a method that creates the smallest amount of carbon by-product. There have also been a number of promising coal seam gas proposals in Southland.

Southland also has a range of minerals that have been considered for extraction, particularly silicon. This has gained in interest because of high demand from the electronic and energy sectors.

Southland offers a broad range of technological expertise and huge collaborateive potential for servicing the energy sectors. The intent for Southland is to build recognition of the regional capabilities and provide a platform that allows potential exploration companies to access information regarding relevant sectors and skills through one port of call.

Click here to view the South Island petroleum permit map.