First Exploration Approval Advances Gas RebuildEnergy Resources Aotearoa says today’s approval of an exploration permit for EnZed Energy off South Taranaki shows the Government’s new petroleum regime and permitting processes are delivering for New Zealanders, but the pace needs to increase for other applications. Chief Executive John Carnegie says the approval is a first step under the new Crown Minerals regime towards rebuilding New Zealand's gas supply and allowing domestic natural gas reserves to replenish. "It’s encouraging to see capable investors prepared to back New Zealand’s future gas potential," Carnegie says. "Government ambition needs to be matched with speed of action, or they’ll hold the sector back at a time where new gas supply is desperately needed." This approval sends a clear signal that New Zealand’s resources are worth investing in and companies are prepared to commit capital to finding and developing them.