Shell in New Zealand

Shell is an industry leader in oil and gas exploration and production in New Zealand. Our business is helping to meet the energy demands of New Zealanders, now and in the future, in economically, environmentally and socially responsible ways.

Shell-owned ventures account for around half of New Zealand's total natural gas production and a significant proportion of the country's condensate (light oil) production.  Overall, New Zealand's oil and gas industry contributes $2.5 billion to the nation's GDP (Venture Taranaki - PDF, 14MB - opens in new window).

Shell's exploration and production centres on three major assets in the Taranaki region.  We are the majority equity holder (83.75%) of the Māui gas and condensate field, which has provided New Zealand with a sustained supply of natural gas since 1979.

We also have a 50% share in Kapuni, New Zealand's oldest gas and condensate field, which first allowed New Zealanders to tap into home grown hydrocarbon energy resources instead of having to import them.

Shell is also the largest joint venture partner (48%) and the operator of the technologically advanced Pohokura field, which began production in 2006.  Pohokura now meets around 40% of New Zealand's natural gas requirements.

Shell has a 50% share in Shell Todd Oil Services (STOS), which operates the Māui and Kapuni fields.  Overall, Shell's operating ventures produce around 80% of New Zealand's total natural gas production on behalf of Shell and our field partners.

Until April 1, 2010 Shell also owned and operated a nationwide network of petrol stations, major commercial, aviation, marine, bitumen and chemical businesses, and a distribution network.  This business was sold to Infratil Limited and the Guardians of New Zealand Superannuation.  This company now operates as Z Energy Limited.

As well as optimising production and maximising recovery from our existing assets, Shell is constantly looking at new opportunities for exploration such as the Ruru prospect off the South Taranaki coast.

We are excited about continuing to invest in New Zealand as we meet New Zealanders' energy needs into the future.