Ending Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration
The Government is ending offshore oil and gas exploration and has put a stop to onshore permits, with the exception of Taranaki.
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern made the announcement today, saying "transitions have to start somewhere". But it's not over yet. There are 27 fields in New Zealand currently producing oil and gas.
The last of the permits ends in 2030, but if a discovery is made, production could continue for decades. Ardern said the decision was about "striking a balance" and "unless we make the decision today that will essentially take place in 30 years time, we risk abrupt shocks".
The decision is a massive win for Labour's coalition partner, the Green Party - possibly its biggest policy win, ever. It was one of the party's campaign promises. On the other hand, Labour's other coalition partner, New Zealand First, is having to suck it up.
Regional Economic Development Minister Shane Jones says it's the "only scenario" and NZ First voters will have to accept that. However, he was visibly struggling with the decision.
Over in the opposition camp, National leader Simon Bridges says it's a "wrecking ball through the regional economy". If National won the 2020 election, Bridges would reverse the decision, he said.
The oil and gas industry is crying foul, but Stuff reporter Hamish Rutherford writes that it seems like a moderate decision.
Meanwhile, environmentalists around the country are celebrating a win.
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
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5% Second half of November
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44.6% 1st December
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17.1% A week before Christmas
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32.1% Whenever you wish
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1.2% Other - I'll share below
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