Shane Jones says the permit signals returning investor confidence. (Image: Getty)A 12-year petroleum exploration permit has been granted to Australian explorer EnZed Energy, making it the first new offshore permit since the Government lifted the ban on offshore exploration.The permit covers an area of about 546sq km in the offshore Taranaki Basin, specifically the Kaheru prospect.EnZed Energy will begin with a study of existing seismic data and geological studies to assess the potential of the prospect.Resources Minister Shane Jones said the granting of the permit was a major milestone for the country's energy sector an...