Shell has been an upstream operator in New Zealand since 1955. We currently have an 83.75% interest in production of the offshore Maui gas field, a 50% interest in the onshore Kapuni gas field and a 48% interest in the Pohokura gas field. The produced gas is sold domestically, mainly under long-term contracts.
The Pohokura field, discovered in 2000, is the country’s largest gas resource. Production started from onshore wells in August 2006 and from offshore ones in March 2007. Development work was completed in 2008. Peak production is expected to be 40,000 boe/d. The field is operated remotely, saving cost and improving safety. An appraisal extension to our licence that was awarded in 2007 will allow for future development using existing infrastructure allowing us to maximise the resources from the field.
Shell also has interests in other exploration licence areas in the Taranaki Basin.
