1: Title
This Act is the Crown Minerals (Decommissioning and Other Matters) Amendment Act 2021.
2: Commencement
1: Sections 1 to 17 19 to 29 Schedules 1 2
2: Section 18
a: sections 89A to 89ZR
b: sections 89ZZC to 89ZZZC
3: The rest of this Act comes into force—
a: on 1 or more dates set by Order in Council; or
b: 24 months after the date of Royal assent, for any provision in this Act that has not come into force by then.
4: An order under this section is secondary legislation ( see Part 3 The following table is small in size and has 3 columns that are grouped under the heading Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section. Legislation Act 2019 requirements for secondary legislation made under this section Publication PCO must publish it on the legislation website and notify it in the Gazette LA19 s 69(1)(c) Presentation The Minister must present it to the House of Representatives LA19 s 114 Disallowance It may be disallowed by the House of Representatives LA19 ss 115 116 This note is not part of the Act.
3: Principal Act
This Act amends the Crown Minerals Act 1991 2021-12-02 Crown Minerals Act 1991 see section 2(1): Sections 1 to 17 and 19 to 29 and Schedules 1 and 3 come into force on the day after the day of Royal assent. Section 18 also in force but only relates to new sections 89A to 89ZR and sections 89ZZC to 89ZZZC. 2023-12-01 Crown Minerals Act 1991 The rest of this Act (see s 2(3)(b)); can be brought into force earlier on 1 or more dates set by Order in Council (see s 2(3)(a)).
1: Amendments to Part 1
4: Section 2 amended (Interpretation)
1: In section 2(1) decommissioning section 89E petroleum infrastructure section 89F ship
2: In section 2(1) participating interest participating interest
a: in relation to a permit, means an undivided share of the permit that is expressed as a percentage recorded on the permit:
b: in relation to a licence granted under Part 1 of the Petroleum Act 1937, means an undivided share of the licence that is recorded on the licence
3: In section 2(1) permit these permits , except in subparts 2 and 3
5: Section 2B amended (Meaning of Tier 1 permit and Tier 2 permit)
1: Repeal section 2B(1)(b)
2: In section 2B(1)(e) a permit an exploration or mining permit
6: Section 2C amended (Determination of permit tier status)
1: In section 2C(2)(a) and then once in each permit year
2: In section 2C(2)(b) and then once in each permit year
3: Repeal section 2C(4)
7: Section 5 amended (Functions of Minister)
In section 5
ca: to make decisions on decommissioning petroleum infrastructure and wells, requirements for financial securities, payments for post-decommissioning work, and related matters:
2: Amendments to other Parts of principal Act
8: Section 29A amended (Process for considering application)
1: In section 29A(2)(b) and (c) likely highly likely
2: In section 29A(2)(d) is likely is highly likely
9: Section 32 amended (Right of permit holder to subsequent permits)
In section 32(5A) otherwise agree, and , subject to subpart 2
10: Section 36 amended (Change to permit)
1: In section 36(3) as provided by section 35A or to enable the holder of a permit relating to petroleum to complete their decommissioning obligations under subpart 2
2: In section 36(4) under section 35A or to enable the holder of a permit relating to petroleum to complete their decommissioning obligations under subpart 2
3: In section 36(5) The Subject to subsection (5AA)
4: After section 36(5)
5AA: The duration of any permit may be extended,—
a: if the permit relates to petroleum, to enable the permit holder to complete their decommissioning obligations under subpart 2
b: if the permit relates to minerals, to enable the permit holder to complete rehabilitation work.
11: Section 41 amended (Transfer of interest in permit)
In section 41(6) likely highly likely
12: Section 41AE amended (When Minister may consent to change of control of permit operator)
1: In section 41AE(1)(a)(ii) and (iii) likely highly likely
2: In section 41AE(1)(b) is likely is highly likely
13: Section 41C amended (Change of permit operator)
In section 41C(3)(a) and (b)(i) likely highly likely
14: Section 41D amended (General provisions relating to transfers, dealings, and changes of permit operator)
After section 41D(4)(b)
c: subpart 2 of Part 1B
15: New subpart 1 heading in Part 1B inserted
After the Part 1B
1: Permits, access to land, and title notations
16: New cross-heading above section 42 inserted
After section 41D Surveys
17: New sections 42B and 42C and cross-headings inserted
After section 42A Field development plans in respect of petroleum mining permits and licences
42B: Field development plans to be submitted to chief executive
1: The holder of a petroleum mining permit granted under this Act or a petroleum mining licence granted under the Petroleum Act 1937 ( A
a: at the prescribed times (if any); and
b: within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
c: on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
2: The field development plan must—
a: detail the planned development of the field over its anticipated productive life; and
b: be accurate as at the date of submission to the chief executive; and
c: contain the prescribed information (if any); and
d: meet any further prescribed requirements. Notice of expected cessation and notice of cessation of petroleum fields
42C: Notice of expected cessation and notice of cessation
1: The holder of a petroleum mining permit granted under this Act or a petroleum mining licence granted under the Petroleum Act 1937 ( A
a: at the prescribed times (if any); and
b: within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
c: on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
2: The notice of expected cessation must—
a: specify when A currently expects the field to permanently cease production; and
b: contain the prescribed information (if any); and
c: meet any further prescribed requirements.
3: If the field permanently ceases production, A must give the chief executive notice of that cessation as soon as practicable and not later than 20 working days after cessation.
18: New subparts 2 to 5 of Part 1B inserted
After section 89
2: Decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure and wells
89A: Application of this subpart
This subpart applies to—
a: a permit holder:
b: any person who applies for a permit before commencement if the application has not been determined on commencement:
c: a licence holder:
d: a person who transfers a permit or licence or all or part of a participating interest in a permit or licence on or after commencement, and a person to whom the permit or licence or all or part of a participating interest is transferred:
e: a person who on commencement held a permit which has subsequently expired, been surrendered, or revoked (former permit holder):
f: a person who on commencement held a licence which has subsequently expired, been surrendered, or revoked (former licence holder).
89B: Relationship between this subpart and other enactments
1: This subpart does not limit or affect any person’s obligations under another enactment (for example, the Resource Management Act 1991, the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Act 2012, or the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015).
2: Any requirement under this subpart for a person to supply information does not replace or limit any requirement for that person to supply information under other provisions in this Act or another enactment.
3: An exemption granted under this subpart from complying with a decommissioning requirement under this subpart does not exempt the person from complying with another enactment.
89C: Relationship between sections 42B and 42C, this subpart, and existing conditions of permits and licences
1: If the requirements of sections 42B and 42C the provisions
2: On commencement, each permit and licence is deemed to contain a condition that repeats the provisions of subsection (1)
89D: Interpretation
In this subpart, unless the context otherwise requires,— commencement current licence holder current permit holder licence permit petroleum infrastructure section 89F plugging and abandonment section 89Q well
a: means a borehole drilled or re-entered for the purposes of exploring for, appraising, or extracting petroleum; and
b: includes—
i: any borehole used for injection or reinjection purposes; and
ii: any down-hole pressure-containing equipment; and
iii: the wellhead; and
iv: any other prescribed thing wellhead
89E: Decommissioning
1: In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, decommissioning
a: means an activity undertaken under any enactment (for example, the Resource Management Act 1991, the Exclusive Economic Zone and Continental Shelf (Environmental Effects) Act 2012, or the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015), and in accordance with any requirements or standards set by or under that enactment or imposed by a regulatory agency, to take out of service permanently petroleum infrastructure or a well used for prospecting or exploring for, or mining of, petroleum; and
b: includes (without limitation) and to the extent required by this Act or another enactment or by standards or by a regulatory agency,—
i: removing petroleum infrastructure; and
ii: plugging and abandoning a well; and
iii: undertaking site restoration when production of a well ceases (for whatever reason); and
iv: any other prescribed activity in relation to any petroleum infrastructure, or well drilled for the purposes of exploring or prospecting for, or mining of, petroleum.
2: However, if in relation to petroleum infrastructure, no other enactment, relevant standard, or requirement by a regulatory agency contains any requirements or standards relating to the method of decommissioning a particular item of petroleum infrastructure, that infrastructure must be decommissioned by totally removing it.
3: Despite subsection (2)
89F: Petroleum infrastructure
In this Act, unless the context otherwise requires, petroleum infrastructure
a: means—
i: a structure (within the meaning of section 101A) or vessel used onshore or offshore for the purpose of exploring for, or mining of, or processing, petroleum—
A: up until the point when the petroleum enters infrastructure used by a person other than a current permit holder or licence holder; and
B: up until the point when the infrastructure is used for distributing or transporting the petroleum, or otherwise ceases to be part of the system for producing petroleum:
ii: any equipment attached to, or used in connection with, a structure, well, vessel, or site, including cables, pipelines, flow-lines, gas lift lines, umbilicals, manifolds, and moorings:
iii: any other prescribed thing or class of thing used in connection with, prospecting or exploring for, or mining of, petroleum; but
b: does not include—
i: a well:
ii: any unmoored ship:
iii: any vehicle:
iv: any other prescribed thing or class of thing.
89G: Conditions relating to decommissioning
1: This section applies—
a: if the Minister, on or after commencement, grants a permit:
b: if the Minister, on or after commencement, consents to the transfer of all or part of a participating interest in a permit under section 41 of this Act or consents to the transfer of a licence or all or part of a participating interest in a licence under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act), as the case requires:
c: at any time on or after commencement while a permit or licence (whenever granted) is in force.
2: The Minister may (on the grant of a permit, or on giving consent to the transfer of a licence or all or part of a participating interest in a permit or licence, or on giving consent to a change of control, or when agreeing or determining the amount or kind of financial security required, or when specifying a timetable for decommissioning, or if the permit or licence holder consents) impose or vary conditions on the permit or licence holder in relation to the decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure or a well.
89H: Meaning of relevant older petroleum infrastructure
1: In this subpart, relevant older petroleum infrastructure
a: means,—
i: in relation to a current or former permit holder, petroleum infrastructure—
A: put in place or used by a permit holder or licence holder (whether the current permit holder or a different permit holder or licence holder) under a permit that was exchanged for the current permit or the former permit under section 32 of this Act or otherwise exchanged on the same day (for example, as evidenced by any notation on a document linking an exploration permit to a current mining permit); and
B: that was in place at the time the exchange occurred:
ii: also, in relation to a current or former permit holder, petroleum infrastructure put in place or used by a permit holder or licence holder (whether the current permit holder or a different permit holder or licence holder)—
A: in a part of the permit area or licence area of any former holder’s permit or licence that was subsequently relinquished or surrendered and included on the same day in the permit area of the current permit or included on the same day in a previous permit area or licence area and then subsequently included in the permit area of the current permit; or
B: anywhere outside the permit area or licence area, but used solely to facilitate activities conducted in the permit or licence area to be relinquished or surrendered:
iii: in relation to a current or former licence holder, petroleum infrastructure—
A: put in place or used by a licence holder (whether the current licence holder or a different licence holder) under a licence that was exchanged for the current licence or the former licence under section 9(3) or sections 11 and 12, or any other relevant provisions, of the Petroleum Act 1937 (as they read at the time of the exchange) or otherwise exchanged on the same day; and
B: that was in place at the time the exchange occurred:
iv: also, in relation to a current or former licence holder, petroleum infrastructure put in place or used by a licence holder (whether the current licence holder or a different licence holder)—
A: in a part of the licence area or licence area of any former licence holder that was subsequently surrendered and included on the same day in the licence area of the current licence or included on the same day in a previous licence area and then subsequently included in the licence area of the current licence; or
B: anywhere outside the licence area, but used solely to facilitate activities conducted in the licence area to be surrendered:
v: also includes any class, or item, of petroleum infrastructure declared by the regulations, in relation to a class of, or individual, permit or licence holders, to be relevant older petroleum infrastructure (irrespective of whether any of the preceding paragraphs apply to the class or item of petroleum infrastructure); but
b: excludes any class, or item, of petroleum infrastructure declared by the regulations, in relation to a class of, or individual, current permit or licence holders, not to be relevant older petroleum infrastructure (irrespective of whether any of the preceding subparagraphs apply to the class or item of petroleum infrastructure).
2: In this section and section 89I
a: any reference to a permit or a former permit includes a permit or former permit of any kind:
b: any reference to a licence or former licence includes a licence or former licence of any kind.
89I: Meaning of relevant older well
In this subpart, relevant older well
a: means,—
i: in relation to a current or former permit holder, a well—
A: drilled or used by a permit holder or licence holder (whether the current permit holder or a different permit holder or licence holder) under a permit or licence that was exchanged for the current permit under section 32 of this Act or otherwise exchanged on the same day (for example, as evidenced by any notation on a document linking an exploration permit to a mining permit); and
B: that was in place at the time the exchange occurred:
ii: also, in relation to a current or former permit holder, a well drilled or used by a permit holder or licence holder (whether the current permit holder or a different permit holder or licence holder)—
A: in a part of the permit area or licence area of any former holder’s permit or licence that was subsequently relinquished or surrendered and included on the same day in a permit area of the current permit or included on the same day in a previous permit area or licence area and then subsequently included in the permit area of the current permit; or
B: anywhere outside the permit area or licence area, but used solely to facilitate activities conducted in the permit or licence area to be relinquished or surrendered:
iii: in relation to a current or former licence holder, a well—
A: drilled or used by a licence holder (whether the current licence holder or a different licence holder) under a licence that was exchanged for the current licence under section 9(3) or sections 11 and 12, or any other relevant provisions, of the Petroleum Act 1937 (as they read at the time of the exchange) or otherwise exchanged on the same day; and
B: that was in place at the time the exchange occurred:
iv: also, in relation to a current or former licence holder, any well put in place or used by the current licence holder or a different licence holder—
A: in a part of the licence area or licence area of any former holder’s licence that was subsequently surrendered and included on the same day in the licence area of the current licence or included on the same day in a previous licence area and then subsequently included in the licence area of the current licence; or
B: anywhere outside the licence area, but used solely to facilitate activities conducted in the licence area to be surrendered:
v: any well included in the permit area of a current licence or permit that was used to delineate or appraise a deposit or occurrence of petroleum that the current permit or licence relates to (whether that well was drilled under the current licence or permit or a former licence or permit):
vi: also any class of well or individual well declared in the regulations, in relation to a class of, or individual, permit or licence holders, to be a relevant older well (irrespective of whether any of the preceding subparagraphs apply to the class of well or individual well); but
b: excludes any class of well declared by the regulations, in relation to a class of current permit or licence holders, not to be a relevant older well (irrespective of whether any of the preceding subparagraphs apply to the class of well or individual well). Decommissioning obligations for petroleum infrastructure
89J: Obligations of permit holders, transferors, and transferees: decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure
1: A person who holds or will hold a permit at the time the obligation to decommission is required to be completed must carry out, and meet the costs of, the decommissioning of all petroleum infrastructure—
a: put in place or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current permit (whenever granted), and all relevant older petroleum infrastructure; and
b: in a case where only part of the permit area is to be relinquished or surrendered, located in the area of the permit that is to be relinquished or surrendered, and all relevant older petroleum infrastructure.
2: A person with a participating interest in a permit (whenever granted) who transfers all or any part of their participating interest in the permit on or after commencement, but before decommissioning is completed, must meet the costs of decommissioning all petroleum infrastructure—
a: that is—
i: put in place or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current permit:
ii: relevant older petroleum infrastructure; and
b: that is in place when consent to the transfer is given under section 41.
3: Subsection (2)
4: A transfer of a participating interest in a permit is effective on and after the date of the Minister’s consent to that transfer under section 41.
5: Subsections (1), (2), and (4) sections 89L and 89M
89K: Obligations of licence holders, transferors, and transferees: decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure
1: A person who holds or will hold a licence at the time the obligation to decommission is required to be completed must carry out, and meet the costs of, the decommissioning of all petroleum infrastructure—
a: put in place or used for the purpose of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current licence (whenever granted), and all relevant older petroleum infrastructure; and
b: in a case where only part of the licence area is to be surrendered, located in the area of the licence that is to be surrendered, and all relevant older petroleum infrastructure.
2: A licence holder or any person with a participating interest in a licence who transfers the licence, or all or any part of their participating interest in the licence, on or after commencement but before decommissioning is completed must meet the costs of decommissioning all petroleum infrastructure—
a: that is—
i: put in place or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the licence:
ii: relevant older petroleum infrastructure; and
b: that is in place when consent to the transfer is given under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act).
3: Subsection (2)
4: A transfer of a licence or a participating interest in a licence is effective on settlement of the agreement to transfer the licence or the interest in the licence.
5: Subsections (1), (2), and (4) sections 89L and 89M
89L: Further obligations on transferors and transferees and Minister
1: This section applies to—
a: a person ( person A
b: a person ( person B
c: the Minister.
2: Person A continues (to the extent provided in section 89M
a: that is—
i: put in place or used for the purpose of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the permit or licence:
ii: relevant older petroleum infrastructure; and
b: that is in place when consent to the transfer is given under section 41 of this Act or under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act), as the case requires.
3: The Minister, before consenting to the transfer of a licence or a participating interest in a permit or licence, must be satisfied that person B has, in accordance with the directions of the Minister,—
a: entered into a financial security (with all the other persons with a participating interest in the licence or permit) that a permit holder or licence holder is required to obtain and maintain in accordance with sections 89ZL to 89ZR
b: become a party to an existing financial security (entered into by all the other persons with a participating interest in the licence or permit) that was entered into previously in accordance with those sections, and within the time specified by the Minister.
4: A financial security referred to in subsection (3) section 89T(3)
5: If person B fails to comply with subsection (3)
a: to the extent provided in section 89M
b: person A must be treated as continuing to be the holder of the licence or the participating interest in the permit or licence that was the subject of the transfer.
89M: Extent of liability of former permit and licence holders under sections 89J(2) and 89K(2)
1: One or more persons who are liable to meet the costs of decommissioning under section 89J(2) or 89K(2) section 89J(1) or 89K(1)
2: Persons who are liable to meet the costs of decommissioning that are not met by the persons referred to in section 89J(1) or 89K(1)
a: the former licence or permit holder or person with a participating interest in a licence or permit ( person B person A
b: if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person ( person C
c: if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person ( person D
d: if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person ( person E
e: if there are still unpaid decommissioning costs, and there are still earlier former licence holders or former holders of a participating interest in a permit or licence, then those persons are liable, in an order of priority consistent with the formula in paragraphs (a) to (d)
89N: When decommissioning obligations of persons under section 89J, 89K, or 89L arise
1: Any person liable to carry out, or meet the costs of, decommissioning petroleum infrastructure, or both, under section 89J, 89K, or 89L
a: in a case where production permanently ceases in the area of the current permit or licence before the permit or licence expires,—
i: by a date or dates agreed with the Minister for the completion of the decommissioning and the completion of earlier milestones in the decommissioning process; or
ii: if there is no such agreed date or dates, by a date that is 2 years before the expiry of the current licence or permit, by a date or dates specified by the Minister by notice in writing to the person:
b: the expiry or surrender of the current permit or licence:
c: in a case where only part of the current permit area or licence area is to be relinquished or surrendered, before the Minister approves the partial relinquishment or surrender of the permit under section 35C or 40 of this Act or the partial surrender of a licence under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved under clause 12(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act):
2: However, if a permit or licence is revoked, the person who held the permit or licence immediately before it was revoked must carry out their decommissioning obligations under this subpart by a time agreed with, or specified by, the Minister.
3: To avoid doubt,—
a: the obligations imposed by subsections (1) and (2)
i: the relevant permit or licence has expired or has been surrendered or revoked:
ii: the relevant person has ceased to be a permit or licence holder or the holder of any participating interest in a licence or permit; and
b: a person may carry out their obligations under subsections (1) and (2)
4: A permit holder or licence holder also acts in breach of their decommissioning obligations if they—
a: give notice under section 42C(3)
b: fail within a period after that notice agreed with the Minister, or in the event that there is no agreement, within a period after that notice specified by the Minister, to complete milestones agreed or specified under subsection (1)(a)
5: A certificate issued by the chief executive as to the date when decommissioning obligations took effect under this section—
a: must be given to the person who has those obligations as soon as practicable after they take effect; and
b: is conclusive evidence in any proceedings under this Act, in the absence of proof to the contrary, of when those obligations took effect.
89O: Criteria for agreeing or setting time frames for decommissioning
When considering under section 89N
a: the size of the field to be decommissioned:
b: the complexity of the required decommissioning:
c: the subpart 2
d: the decommissioning cost estimate:
e: the estimated date on which production in the field will cease:
f: the time required to comply with requirements under other enactments before decommissioning can commence or be completed:
g: any other matters the Minister considers relevant.
89P: Joint and several liability
1: Subsection (2) section 89J
2: Each person to whom this subsection applies is jointly and severally liable to perform the obligations of the permit holder in carrying out, and meeting the costs of, decommissioning petroleum infrastructure.
3: Subsection (4) section 89K
4: Each person to whom this subsection applies is jointly and severally liable to perform the obligations of the licence holder in relation to carrying out, and meeting the costs of, decommissioning petroleum infrastructure. Plugging and abandonment of wells
89Q: What is plugging and abandonment of well
A well is plugged and abandoned
a: the well is sealed in order to make it permanently inoperable; and
b: the sealing is conducted in accordance with any relevant enactment or standard, and the requirements of any regulatory authority; and
c: the wellhead is removed; and
d: any remediation of the site required by another enactment is completed; and
e: any other prescribed action required to plug and abandon the well is completed. Decommissioning obligations in relation to wells
89R: Obligations of permit holders, transferors, and transferees: decommissioning of wells
1: A person who holds or will hold a permit at the time the obligation to plug and abandon 1 or more wells is required to be completed must carry out, and meet the costs of, the plugging and abandoning of all wells—
a: drilled or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current permit (whenever granted), and all relevant older wells; and
b: in a case where only part of the permit area is to be relinquished or surrendered, located in the area of the permit that is to be relinquished or surrendered, and all relevant older wells.
2: A person with a participating interest in a permit (whenever granted) who transfers all or any part of their interest in the permit on or after commencement, but before decommissioning is completed, must meet the costs of plugging and abandoning all wells—
a: that are—
i: drilled or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current permit:
ii: relevant older wells; and
b: that are in place when consent to the transfer is given under section 41.
3: Subsection (2)
4: A transfer of a participating interest in a permit is effective on and after the date of the Minister’s consent to that transfer under section 41.
5: Subsections (1) and (2) sections 89T and 89U
89S: Obligations of licence holders, transferors, and transferees: decommissioning of wells
1: A person who holds or will hold a licence at the time the obligation to plug and abandon 1 or more wells is required to be completed must carry out, and meet the costs of, plugging and abandoning all wells—
a: drilled or used for the purposes of, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the current licence, and all relevant older wells; and
b: in a case where only part of the licence area is to be surrendered, located in the area of the licence that is to be surrendered, and all relevant older wells.
2: A licence holder or person with a participating interest in a licence who transfers the licence, or all or any part of their participating interest in the licence, on or after commencement but before decommissioning is completed must meet the costs of plugging and abandoning all wells—
a: that are—
i: drilled or used for the purposes of carrying out activities authorised by, or otherwise related to, the licence:
ii: relevant older wells; and
b: that are in place when consent to the transfer is given under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act).
3: Subsection (2)
4: A transfer of a licence or a participating interest in a licence is effective on settlement of the agreement to transfer the licence or the interest in the licence.
5: Subsections (1) and (2) sections 89T and 89U
89T: Further obligations on transferors and transferees and Minister
1: This section applies to—
a: a person ( person A
b: a person ( person B
2: Person A continues (to the extent provided in section 89U
a: that is—
i: put in place or used for the purposes of carrying out, or otherwise related to, activities authorised by the permit or licence:
ii: a relevant older well; and
b: that is in place when the transfer is consented to under section 41 of this Act or under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act), as the case requires.
3: The Minister, before consenting to the transfer of a licence or a participating interest in a permit or licence, must be satisfied that person B has, in accordance with the directions of the Minister,—
a: entered into a financial security (with all the other persons with a participating interest in the licence or permit) that a permit holder or licence holder is required to obtain and maintain in accordance with sections 89ZL to 89ZR
b: become a party to an existing financial security (entered into by all the other persons with a participating interest in the licence or permit) that was entered into previously in accordance with those sections, and within the time specified by the Minister.
4: A financial security referred to in subsection (3) section 89L(3)
5: If person B fails to comply with subsection (3)
a: to the extent provided in section 89U
b: person A must be treated as continuing to be the holder of the licence or the participating interest in the permit or licence that was the subject of the transfer.
89U: Extent of liability of former permit and licence holders under sections 89R and 89S
1: One or more persons who are liable to meet the costs of plugging and abandonment under section 89R(2) or 89S(2) section 89R(1) or 89S(1)
2: Persons who are liable to meet the costs of decommissioning that are not met by the persons referred to in section 89R(1) or 89S(1)
a: the former licence or permit holder or person with a participating interest in a licence or a permit ( person B person A
b: if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person ( person C
c: if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person ( person D
d: if there are still any unpaid decommissioning costs, the person ( person E
e: if there are still unpaid decommissioning costs, and there are still earlier former licence holders or former holders of a participating interest in a permit or licence, then those persons are liable, in an order of priority consistent with the formula in paragraphs (a) to (d)
89V: When decommissioning obligations of permit holders, licence holders, and other persons under section 89R, 89S, or 89T arise
1: A person liable to carry out, or meet costs of, plugging and abandoning wells, or both, under section 89R, 89S, or 89T
a: in a case where production permanently ceases in the area of the current permit or licence before the permit or licence expires,—
i: by a date or dates agreed with the Minister for the completion of the decommissioning and the date or dates of completion of earlier milestones in the decommissioning process; or
ii: if there is no such agreed date by the date or dates that is 2 years before the expiry of the current licence or permit, by a date or dates specified by the Minister by notice in writing to the person:
b: the expiry or surrender of the current permit or licence:
c: in a case where only part of the current permit area or licence area is to be relinquished or surrendered, before the Minister approves the partial relinquishment or surrender of the permit under section 35C or 40 of this Act or the partial surrender of a licence under the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved under clause 12(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act).
2: However, if a permit or licence is revoked, the person who held the permit or licence immediately before it was revoked must carry out their decommissioning obligations under this subpart by a time agreed with, or specified by, the Minister.
3: To avoid doubt, the obligations imposed by subsections (1) and (2)
a: the relevant permit or licence has expired or has been surrendered or revoked:
b: the relevant person has ceased to be a permit or licence holder or the holder of any participating interest in a licence or permit.
4: A permit holder or licence holder also acts in breach of their decommissioning obligations if they—
a: give notice under section 42C(3)
b: fail within a period after that notice agreed with the Minister, or in the event that there is no agreement, within a period after that notice specified by the Minister, to complete milestones agreed or specified under subsection (1)(a)
5: A certificate issued by the chief executive as to the date when decommissioning obligations took effect under this section—
a: must be given to the person who has those obligations as soon as practicable after they take effect; and
b: is conclusive evidence, in any proceedings under this Act, in the absence of proof to the contrary, of when those obligations took effect.
89W: Criteria for agreeing or setting time frames for decommissioning of wells
When considering under section 89V
a: the size of the field to be decommissioned:
b: the complexity of the required decommissioning:
c: the subpart 2
d: the decommissioning cost estimate:
e: the estimated date on which production in the field will cease:
f: the time required to comply with requirements under other enactments before decommissioning can commence or be completed:
g: any other matters the Minister considers relevant.
89X: Joint and several liability
1: Subsection (2) section 89R
2: Each person to whom this subsection applies is jointly and severally liable to comply with and perform the obligations of the permit holder in relation to carrying out, and meeting the costs of, plugging and abandoning wells.
3: Subsection (4) section 89S
4: Each person to whom this subsection applies is jointly and severally liable to perform the obligations of the licence holder in relation to carrying out, and meeting the costs of, plugging and abandoning wells. Exemptions and deferrals
89Y: Exemption and deferral powers of Minister
1: The Minister may, on application or on their own initiative, and if they consider it appropriate,—
a: exempt a permit holder or licence holder from the requirements of this subpart to decommission a particular item of petroleum infrastructure or to plug and abandon a particular well; or
b: defer the time for complying with an obligation to decommission a particular item of petroleum infrastructure or to plug and abandon a particular well.
2: The Minister may—
a: grant an exemption or a deferral on any terms and conditions that they consider appropriate:
b: amend or revoke an exemption or a deferral:
c: grant an exemption for an indefinite or a limited period:
d: replace an exemption or a deferral either before or when it expires.
3: An application under subsection (1)
4: If the Minister grants an exemption or a deferral under this section, the Minister must provide the licence holder or permit holder with reasons for their decision and state them in the notice of exemption or deferral.
5: Class exemptions and class deferrals may be granted by regulations ( see
89Z: Criteria for granting exemption
1: Before granting an exemption under section 89Y
a: be satisfied—
i: that the requirements are unreasonable or inappropriate in the particular case; or
ii: that events have occurred that make the requirements unnecessary or inappropriate in the particular case; or
b: be satisfied that the petroleum infrastructure or well in question will be used for a purpose other than exploration for, or mining of, petroleum by the person to be granted the exemption.
2: For the purposes of applying subsection (1)(b)
a: the ownership of the petroleum infrastructure or well in question:
b: any prescribed criteria:
c: any other matter the Minister considers relevant.
89ZA: Criteria for grant of deferral
1: Before granting a deferral under section 89Y
2: For the purposes of applying subsection (1)
a: whether there is economic value to the owners of the petroleum infrastructure or well in deferring the decommissioning of that petroleum infrastructure or plugging and abandoning that well:
b: the impact of failing to grant a deferral on the operation of associated petroleum infrastructure and wells:
c: any plans for field development:
d: the likelihood of an increase or a decrease in the costs of decommissioning during any deferral period, and the extent of that increase, so far as it can be estimated:
e: any other matter the Minister considers relevant. Reporting requirements
89ZB: Subpart 2 decommissioning plan
1: A person who is, or will be, obliged, under this subpart, to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning must submit a subpart 2
a: at the prescribed times (if any); and
b: within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
c: on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
2: The subpart 2
a: describe the planned decommissioning activities and the processes to be used to carry out those activities, and set out a proposed schedule for those activities; and
b: be accurate as at the date of submission to the chief executive; and
c: contain the prescribed information (if any); and
d: meet any further prescribed requirements.
89ZC: Decommissioning cost estimate
1: A person who is, or will be, obliged, under this subpart, to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning must submit a cost estimate of all anticipated decommissioning work (a decommissioning cost estimate
a: at the prescribed times (if any); and
b: within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
c: on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
2: The decommissioning cost estimate must—
a: comply with the standards prescribed (if any) for developing that estimate; and
b: meet any further prescribed requirements.
3: The Minister may require any person who submits a cost estimate under subsection (1)
89ZD: Asset registers to be submitted to chief executive
1: A permit holder or licence holder who is obliged, under this subpart, to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning ( A
a: at the prescribed times (if any); and
b: within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
c: on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
2: The asset register must—
a: be a complete and accurate list of the petroleum infrastructure and wells that A must decommission under sections 89J, 89K, 89R, and 89S
b: contain the prescribed information (if any); and
c: meet any further prescribed requirements.
89ZE: Decommissioning completion report
1: A person who is obliged, under this subpart, to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning must submit a decommissioning completion report to the chief executive—
a: at the prescribed times (if any); and
b: within a specified time of the occurrence of prescribed events (if any); and
c: on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
2: The decommissioning completion report must—
a: contain the prescribed information (if any); and
b: meet any further prescribed requirements. Ongoing monitoring of financial position
89ZF: Permit and licence holders must provide information needed to monitor financial position
1: A permit holder or licence holder ( A
2: A must submit a copy of the information to the Minister—
a: at the prescribed times (if any); or
b: on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
3: The Minister may, by written notice, require the person to provide any further information that the Minister considers relevant and reasonably necessary.
4: The person must provide a copy of the information to the Minister—
a: in the form and in the manner set out in the notice; and
b: within any reasonable time specified in the notice requiring the information. Financial capability assessments
89ZG: Minister may assess financial capability to meet decommissioning obligations
1: This section applies to a permit holder or licence holder ( A
2: The Minister may carry out an assessment to determine whether A is highly likely to have the financial capability to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning (a financial capability assessment
3: The Minister may carry out a financial capability assessment at any time while the relevant permit or licence is in force.
4: The Minister may appoint any suitably qualified person to carry out a financial capability assessment on their behalf.
89ZH: Criteria for considering whether to carry out financial capability assessment
When considering whether to carry out a financial capability assessment under section 89ZG
a: information received under the following:
i: section 42B
ii: section 89ZB
iii: section 89ZC
iv: section 89ZD
v: section 89ZF
b: the circumstances of the particular permit holder or licence holder; and
c: any information relating to current or emerging risks to the permit holder’s or licence holder’s ability to comply with their obligations under this subpart; and
d: any other matters the Minister considers relevant.
89ZI: Process for carrying out financial capability assessment
When carrying out a financial capability assessment under section 89ZG
a: may take into account information received under the following:
i: section 42B
ii: section 89ZB subpart 2
iii: section 89ZC
iv: section 89ZD
v: section 89ZF
b: may take into account any other information the Minister considers relevant; and
c: must meet the prescribed requirements (if any).
89ZJ: Minister must notify outcome of financial capability assessment
As soon as practicable after a financial capability assessment under section 89ZG
a: the Minister’s conclusion as to whether they are highly likely to have the financial capability to carry out and meet the costs of decommissioning; and
b: the reasons for that conclusion.
89ZK: Relevant persons must provide supporting information
1: This section applies to—
a: a permit holder or licence holder who may be subject to a financial capability assessment under section 89ZG
b: any other person the Minister considers is likely to hold information that is relevant and reasonably necessary to carry out the financial capability assessment (for example, parent companies, banks, or auditors).
2: The person must keep a record of any information prescribed by regulations as relevant and reasonably necessary to enable the Minister to carry out a financial capability assessment.
3: The person must provide a copy of the information to the Minister—
a: on or before the prescribed time (if any); or
b: on request from the Minister, within any reasonable time specified in the request.
4: The Minister may, by written notice, require the person to provide any further information that the Minister considers relevant and reasonably necessary to carry out the financial capability assessment.
5: The person must provide a copy of the information to the Minister—
a: in the form and in the manner set out in the notice; and
b: within any reasonable time specified in the notice requiring the information.
6: To avoid doubt, information gathered under this section is subject to section 90A (disclosure of information). Financial securities
89ZL: Permit and licence holders must hold 1 or more financial securities
1: A person who holds a permit or a licence (whenever granted) must obtain and maintain 1 or more financial securities, of a kind, and in an amount, determined by the Minister under section 89ZN(1)
2: The Minister must, as soon as is reasonably practicable after commencement, give each permit holder or licence holder a notice requiring them—
a: to advise the chief executive in the prescribed manner (if any), by a specified date, of the kind of security, and the proposed amount to be secured, that the permit holder or licence holder considers appropriate; and
b: to provide any information specified by the Minister to enable the Minister to make decisions on those matters.
3: However, if the permit or licence holder already maintains a financial security of the kind referred to in subsection (1) subsection (2) subsection (1)
4: The permit holder must provide the information referred to in subsection (2)(b) subsection (3)
a: in the form and manner set out in the notice; and
b: within any reasonable time set out in the notice requiring the information.
5: Any financial security referred to in this section is obtained or maintained on behalf of the Crown.
6: To avoid doubt, information gathered under this section is subject to section 90A (disclosure of information).
89ZM: Matters to which Minister must have regard in setting kind and amount of security
1: The Minister must, when determining the amount to be secured and the kind of security to be obtained by a permit holder or licence holder, take into account—
a: the information (if any) provided by the permit holder or licence holder under section 89ZL(2)(b) section 89ZL(3)
b: the prescribed criteria (if any) relating to particular kinds and amounts of financial security (including any prescribed hierarchy of securities and whether there is a preferred kind of security in the particular situation):
c: the following:
i: the estimated cost of decommissioning:
ii: the extent to which the amount to be secured will cover the estimated cost of decommissioning:
iii: the extent to which the kind of security to be required will ensure that the Crown will obtain payment of the amount in the event the permit holder or licence holder fails to carry out the decommissioning or separately meet those costs:
d: the circumstances of the particular permit holder or licence holder:
e: the time needed for the particular permit holder or licence holder to comply with their obligations under this subpart, and the time when work will need to start in order to achieve this:
f: the estimated administration costs to the particular permit holder or licence holder of meeting and maintaining the security for the required period (including the costs of maintaining any possible increase in the amount required to be secured while the security is in place):
g: any information relating to current or emerging risks to the permit holder’s or licence holder’s ability to comply with their obligations under this subpart:
h: the conclusions of the most recent financial capability assessment (if any):
i: any other matters the Minister considers relevant.
2: The Minister may require a permit holder or licence holder to give the Minister any information that the Minister considers will assist them in determining what kind of financial security should be obtained and the amount to be secured.
3: The permit holder or licence holder must provide the information—
a: in the form and in the manner set out in the notice; and
b: within any reasonable time specified in the notice requiring the information.
89ZN: Decision of Minister
1: The Minister, after following the processes set out in sections 89ZL and 89ZM
a: determine—
i: the kind of security to be obtained, or entered into, by the permit holder or licence holder; and
ii: the amount to be secured; and
b: impose any conditions of the financial security that the Minister considers appropriate.
2: Before making a determination under subsection (1)
3: The Minister may also direct how the security must be held, in accordance with the prescribed requirements (if any).
4: If the security required is in the form of a bond or a cash deposit paid to the chief executive,—
a: if the security relates to a participating interest in a permit, section 97 (except subsection (4)) applies:
b: if the security relates to a licence or a participating interest in a licence, section 47H of the Petroleum Act 1937 (as preserved by clause 12(1)(a) of Schedule 1 of this Act) applies.
5: If the security required is in the form of a bond or cash or a cash deposit held either in accordance with section 97 or separately by a third party (for example, in an escrow account), the permit holder or licence holder may, with the consent of the Minister, use a part or all of those amounts to carry out the decommissioning to which that security relates.
6: The Minister must give the permit holder or licence holder a notice of the Minister’s decision specifying—
a: the kind of financial security to be obtained:
b: the amount to be secured:
c: the time by which it must be obtained:
d: if applicable, how it is to be held:
e: a summary of the reasons for the Minister’s decision.
89ZO: Alteration of amount secured or kind of security required
1: The Minister may, at any time,—
a: require a permit holder or licence holder referred to in section 89ZL(1)
b: allow a permit holder or licence holder referred to in section 89ZL(1)
c: require the permit holder or licence holder referred to in section 89ZL(1)
2: When exercising a power conferred by subsection (1) section 89ZM(1)(b) to (j)
89ZP: Minister must notify required changes in kind of security or amount secured
1: The Minister must, after exercising a power under section 89ZO(1)(a), (b), or (c) section 89ZO(1)(a) or (c)
2: The notice must be accompanied by reasons for the required change.
89ZQ: Permit holder or licence holder may object to kind of security or amount set or required change to those matters
1: A permit holder or licence holder who receives written notice under section 89ZN(4) or 89ZP(1)
2: A notice of objection under subsection (1) section 89ZM
3: If a permit holder or licence holder makes an objection under subsection (1)
89ZR: What happens if permit holder or licence holder makes objection
1: If a permit holder or licence holder makes an objection under section 89ZQ
a: give the permit holder or licence holder an opportunity to be heard; and
b: consider and determine the objection within a reasonable time after its receipt.
2: The Minister must—
a: dismiss the objection; or
b: uphold the objection in whole or in part.
3: Not later than 30 working days after deciding whether to uphold an objection, the Minister must send to the permit holder or licence holder—
a: a copy of the decision, which must include the reasons for the decision; and
b: written notice of any required or permitted changes to the kind of security to be obtained and maintained or the amount secured, as the case requires; and
c: if paragraph (b) paragraph (b)
3: Post-decommissioning obligations
89ZS: Application of this subpart
1: This subpart applies to—
a: each permit holder:
b: each licence holder:
c: any other person who is, or will be, obliged under subpart 2
2: This subpart applies only in relation to—
a: petroleum infrastructure that was decommissioned on or after commencement; or
b: any well that was plugged and abandoned on or after commencement.
89ZT: Relationship between this subpart and other enactments and permit or licence conditions
1: This subpart does not limit or affect any person’s obligations under another enactment or under the conditions of a current permit or licence.
2: Any requirement under this subpart for a person to supply information does not replace or limit any requirement for that person to supply information under any other provision of this Act or another enactment.
89ZU: Interpretation
In this subpart, unless the context otherwise requires,— commencement current licence holder section 89D current permit holder section 89D licence section 89D permit section 89D petroleum infrastructure section 89F post-decommissioning work
a: monitoring decommissioned petroleum infrastructure and wells in order to determine if activities need to be undertaken under paragraph (b)
b: activities carried out in relation to the remediation of—
i: petroleum infrastructure that has been decommissioned but not removed:
ii: a well that has been plugged and abandoned:
iii: environmental damage or health and safety risks caused by a failure of the decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure or a well referred to in subparagraph (i) or (ii) well section 89D
89ZV: Post-decommissioning obligations
1: Any person who is obliged under section 89J(1), 89K(1), 89R(1), or 89S(1)
a: pay the chief executive an amount in accordance with the prescribed criteria (if any), to meet the costs of any post-decommissioning work required on petroleum infrastructure or, as the case requires, 1 or more wells that have been decommissioned:
b: obtain and maintain a financial security, of a kind and in an amount determined by the Minister in accordance with the prescribed requirements, being a security of a kind and in an amount designed to meet the cost or a proportion of the cost approved by the Minister of post-decommissioning work on petroleum infrastructure or 1 or more wells for which the permit or licence holder was responsible for carrying out and meeting the costs of decommissioning.
2: Any financial security referred to in this section is obtained or maintained on behalf of the Crown.
89ZW: Matters for Minister to consider
In deciding under section 89ZV
89ZX: Details of payment or financial security
1: The Minister must direct that a payment by a person to whom section 89ZV(1)(a)
a: be made in 1 lump sum to the chief executive by a prescribed time; or
b: be made in 2 or more instalments on prescribed dates or at prescribed intervals.
2: In deciding whether to give a direction under subsection (1)(a) or (b)
a: the prescribed criteria (if any):
b: the most recent report (if any) available on the person’s financial capability.
3: The Minister must direct that a person to whom section 89ZV(1)(b)
a: in an amount and of a kind specified by the Minister; and
b: on conditions related to the financial security or the manner in which it is held that the Minister considers appropriate; and
c: by a date specified by the Minister.
4: The Minister must give written notice of the matters in subsection (1)
89ZY: Other duties of chief executive
1: The chief executive must ensure that—
a: money received under section 89ZV(1)(a)
b: money received or made available for use under section 89ZV
2: Any money referred to in subsection (1)
3: The chief executive may refund all or any part of any money referred to in subsection (1)
4: For the purposes of carrying out their duties under this subpart, the chief executive may—
a: take account of any information supplied under sections 89ZF and 89ZK
b: require a permit holder or licence holder by written notice to supply any specified information.
5: The permit holder or licence holder must provide the information—
a: in the form and in the manner set out in the notice; and
b: within any reasonable time specified in the notice requiring the information.
6: To avoid doubt, information gathered under this section is subject to section 90A (disclosure of information).
89ZZ: Other duties of Minister
1: The Minister may, in accordance with the prescribed requirements (if any), direct that money received under section 89ZV section 89ZY(1)(b)
2: For the purposes of carrying out their duties under this subpart, the Minister may—
a: take into account any information supplied under sections 42B, 42C, and sections 89ZB to 89ZK, and 89ZW
b: review the adequacy of the funds available for post-decommissioning work, periodically, in accordance with the prescribed requirements:
c: authorise the grant of refunds to persons who have made payments or made available money for use under section 89ZV
d: approve any specified person or class of person to apply for funds, in the prescribed manner and in accordance with the prescribed criteria (if any), to use in post-decommissioning work:
e: require a permit holder or licence holder by written notice to supply any specified information.
3: The permit holder or licence holder must provide the information—
a: in the form and in the manner set out in the notice; and
b: within any reasonable time specified in the notice requiring the information.
4: To avoid doubt, information gathered under this section is subject to section 90A (disclosure of information). Exemptions
89ZZA: Exemption powers of Minister
1: The Minister may, if they consider it appropriate and if satisfied that the criteria in section 89ZZB(1)(a) or (b) section 89ZV(1)(a) section 89ZV(1)(b)
2: The Minister—
a: may grant an exemption on any terms and conditions that the Minister considers appropriate:
b: may amend or revoke an exemption:
c: may grant an exemption for an indefinite or a limited period:
d: may replace an exemption either before or when it expires:
e: must provide a summary of reasons for a decision under paragraphs (a) to (d)
3: Class exemptions may be granted by regulations ( see
89ZZB: Criteria for granting exemption
1: Before granting an exemption under section 89ZZA(1)
a: the requirement is unreasonable or inappropriate in the particular case; or
b: events have occurred that make the requirement unnecessary or inappropriate in the particular case.
2: For the purposes of applying subsection (1)(a) and (b)
4: Enforcement, remedies, and appeals
89ZZC: Application of this subpart
This subpart applies in relation to any contravention or alleged contravention of this Act or the regulations.
89ZZD: Chief executive or enforcement officer may accept enforceable undertakings
1: The chief executive or an enforcement officer may accept an enforceable undertaking given by a person in writing in connection with a matter relating to a contravention or an alleged contravention by the person of this Act or the regulations.
2: The giving of an enforceable undertaking does not constitute an admission of guilt by the person giving it in relation to the contravention or alleged contravention to which the undertaking relates. 2015 No 70 s 123
89ZZE: Notice of decision and reasons for decision
The chief executive or enforcement officer must give the person seeking to make an enforceable undertaking written notice of—
a: their decision to accept or reject the undertaking; and
b: the reasons for the decision. 2015 No 70 s 124
89ZZF: When enforceable undertaking is enforceable
An enforceable undertaking takes effect and becomes enforceable when the chief executive’s or enforcement officer’s decision to accept the undertaking is given to the person who made the undertaking, or at any later date specified by the chief executive or enforcement officer. 2015 No 70 s 125
89ZZG: Compliance with enforceable undertaking
1: A person must not contravene an enforceable undertaking given by that person that is in force.
2: A person who contravenes subsection (1) 2015 No 70 s 126
89ZZH: Contravention of enforceable undertaking
1: The chief executive or an enforcement officer may apply to the District Court for an order referred to in subsection (2)
2: If the court is satisfied that the person who made the enforceable undertaking has contravened the undertaking, the court may make either or both of the following orders:
a: an order directing the person to comply with the undertaking:
b: an order discharging the undertaking.
3: In addition to the orders referred to in subsection (2)
a: the costs of the proceedings; and
b: the reasonable costs of the chief executive or the enforcement officer in monitoring compliance with the enforceable undertaking in the future.
4: This section does not prevent proceedings being brought for the contravention or alleged contravention of this Act or regulations to which the enforceable undertaking relates. 2015 No 70 s 127
89ZZI: Withdrawal or variation of enforceable undertaking
1: A person who has given an enforceable undertaking may at any time, with the written agreement of the chief executive,—
a: withdraw the undertaking; or
b: vary the undertaking.
2: However, the provisions of the undertaking cannot be varied to provide for a different alleged contravention of this Act or regulations. 2015 No 70 s 128
89ZZJ: Proceedings for alleged contravention
1: Subject to this section, no proceedings (whether civil or criminal) for a contravention or an alleged contravention of this Act or regulations may be brought against a person if an enforceable undertaking is in effect in relation to that contravention.
2: No proceedings may be brought for a contravention or an alleged contravention of this Act or regulations against a person who—
a: has made an enforceable undertaking in relation to that contravention; and
b: has completely discharged the enforceable undertaking.
3: The chief executive or an enforcement officer may accept an enforceable undertaking in relation to a contravention or an alleged contravention before proceedings in relation to that contravention have been completed.
4: If the chief executive or an enforcement officer accepts an enforceable undertaking before the proceedings are completed, the chief executive or an enforcement officer must take all reasonable steps to have the proceedings discontinued as soon as practicable. 2015 No 70 s 129 Compliance notices
89ZZK: Power to issue compliance notices
1: This section applies if the chief executive or an enforcement officer reasonably believes that a person—
a: is contravening a provision of this Act or the regulations; or
b: is likely to contravene a provision of this Act or the regulations.
2: The chief executive or enforcement officer may issue a compliance notice requiring the person to—
a: remedy the contravention; or
b: prevent a likely contravention from occurring; or
c: remedy the things or activities causing the contravention or likely to cause a contravention.
3: The chief executive or enforcement officer may issue a compliance notice only, if in the opinion of the chief executive or enforcement officer,—
a: the contravention or likely contravention is or would be sufficiently serious to justify the issue of a compliance notice; or
b: there has been a repeated contravention or a repetition of behaviour that is likely to lead to a contravention occurring; or
c: the contravention or behaviour likely to lead to a contravention has been committed intentionally or recklessly or involves negligence on the person’s part.
4: However, each of the criteria specified in subsection (3)(a) to (c) 2015 No 70 s 101
89ZZL: Content of compliance notices
1: A compliance notice must state—
a: that the chief executive or an enforcement officer believes, on reasonable grounds, that the person—
i: is contravening a provision of this Act or the regulations; or
ii: is likely to contravene a provision of this Act or the regulations; and
b: the provision the chief executive or enforcement officer believes, on reasonable grounds, is being, or is likely to be, contravened; and
c: briefly, how the provision is being, or is likely to be, contravened; and
d: a period within which the person is required to remedy—
i: the contravention or likely contravention; or
ii: the things or activities causing the contravention or likely to cause a contravention.
2: A compliance notice may include recommendations concerning—
a: the measures that could be taken to remedy the contravention, or prevent the likely contravention, to which the notice relates:
b: the things or activities causing the contravention, or likely to cause a contravention, to which the notice relates. 2015 No 70 s 102
89ZZM: Compliance with compliance notice
1: A person who has been issued with a compliance notice must comply with the notice within the period specified in the notice.
2: A person who contravenes subsection (1)
3: However, in a prosecution for an offence against subsection (2)
4: It is not an offence to fail to comply with recommendations in a compliance notice. 2015 No 70 s 103
89ZZN: Extension of time for compliance with compliance notices
1: This section applies if a person has been issued with a compliance notice.
2: The chief executive or enforcement officer may, on their own initiative or on the application of the person, by written notice given to the person, extend the compliance period for the compliance notice.
3: However, the chief executive or enforcement officer may extend the compliance period only if the period has not ended.
4: If a person applies for an extension of time for complying with a compliance notice not less than 2 weeks before the time for compliance expires but a decision has not been made on the application before the time for compliance expires, the period for compliance is deemed to be extended for a period of 2 weeks, to enable a decision on extension to be made within that period.
5: In this section, compliance period
a: means the period stated in the compliance notice under section 89ZZL(1)
b: includes any extension of that period under this section. 2015 No 70 s 104 General provisions
89ZZO: General provisions relating to compliance notices
1: A compliance notice must be in writing.
2: A compliance notice may be addressed to any person under the person’s legal name or usual business name. 2015 No 70 s 112
89ZZP: Changes to notice by chief executive or enforcement officer
The chief executive or an enforcement officer (as the case may be) may make minor changes to a compliance notice—
a: for clarification; or
b: to correct errors or references; or
c: to reflect changes of address or other circumstances. 2015 No 70 s 113
89ZZQ: Chief executive or enforcement officer may vary or cancel compliance notice
Except as provided in section 89ZZP 2015 No 70 s 114
89ZZR: Formal irregularities or defects in compliance notice
A compliance notice is not invalid merely because of—
a: any defect, irregularity, omission, or want of form in the compliance notice unless the defect, irregularity, omission, or want of form causes or is likely to cause a miscarriage of justice; or
b: a failure to use the correct name of the person to whom the compliance notice is issued if the notice sufficiently identifies the person and is issued to the person in accordance with section 89ZZS 2015 No 70 s 115
89ZZS: Issue of compliance notice
1: A compliance notice may be issued to a person by—
a: delivering it to the person or, if the person refuses to accept it, bringing it to the person’s notice; or
b: leaving it for the person at the person’s last known place of residence with another person who appears to be of or over the age of 16 years; or
c: leaving it for the person at the person’s place of business or work with another person; or
d: sending it to the person by prepaid post addressed to the person’s last known place of residence or place of business or work; or
e: sending it to an electronic address of the person in any case where the person does not have a known place of residence or business in New Zealand.
2: Regulations may prescribe the steps a person to whom a compliance notice is issued must take to bring it to the attention of other persons.
3: A compliance notice—
a: posted under subsection (1)(d)
b: delivered electronically under subsection (1)(e) 2015 No 70 s 116 Civil proceedings for non-compliance with compliance notices
89ZZT: Civil proceedings relating to non-compliance with compliance notice
1: On an application by the chief executive or an enforcement officer, the District Court may make an order—
a: compelling a person to comply with a compliance notice; or
b: restraining a person from contravening a compliance notice.
2: The court may make an order—
a: under subsection (1)(a)
b: under subsection (1)(b)
3: The courts may make an order under subsection (2) 2015 No 70 s 122 Pecuniary penalties
89ZZU: Reasonable mistake defence in pecuniary penalty proceedings
1: Every person has a defence to proceedings for pecuniary penalties under section 89ZZV
a: the breach was due to a reasonable mistake or due to events outside of the person’s control; and
b: the breach was remedied (to the extent that it could be remedied) as soon as practicable after the breach was discovered by the person or brought to the person’s notice; and
c: the person has compensated or offered to compensate any person who has suffered loss or damage by that breach.
2: For the avoidance of doubt, a mistake
89ZZV: Pecuniary penalties
1: A court of competent jurisdiction may, on the application of the chief executive, order a person to pay to the Crown the pecuniary penalty that the court determines to be appropriate if the court is satisfied that the person—
a: has contravened any of the following provisions:
i: sections 89J and 89K
ii: sections 89R and 89S
iii: section 89ZL
iv: section 89ZV
b: has attempted to contravene such a provision; or
c: has aided, abetted, counselled, or procured any other person to contravene such a provision; or
d: has induced, or attempted to induce, any other person, whether by threats or promises or otherwise, to contravene such a provision; or
e: has been in any way, directly or indirectly, knowingly concerned in, or party to, the contravention by any other person of such a provision; or
f: has conspired with any other person to contravene such a provision.
2: In determining an appropriate penalty under this section, the court must have regard to all relevant matters, in particular,—
a: the nature and extent of the contravention; and
b: the nature and extent of any loss or damage suffered by any person because of the contravention; and
c: any gains made or losses avoided by the person in contravention; and
d: the circumstances in which the contravention took place (including whether the contravention was intentional, inadvertent, or caused by negligence).
3: The amount of any pecuniary penalty must not, in respect of each act or omission, exceed,—
a: in the case of an individual, $500,000; or
b: in the case of a body corporate, the greater of—
i: $10 million (or, in the case of a contravention referred to in subsection (1)(a)(iv)
ii: either—
A: if it can readily be ascertained and if the court is satisfied that the contravention resulted in a cost to the Crown or another person to remedy the effects of the contravention, 3 times the commercial gain; or
B: if the commercial gain cannot be readily ascertained, 10% of the turnover of the person and all its interconnected bodies corporate (if any) in each accounting period during which the contravention occurred.
4: Proceedings under this section may be commenced within 3 years after the matter giving rise to the contravention was discovered or ought reasonably to have been discovered.
5: Where conduct by any person constitutes a contravention of 2 or more provisions referred to in subsection (1)(a) 2003 No 52 s 107A
89ZZW: Proceedings for pecuniary penalties
In any proceedings under this subpart for a pecuniary penalty,—
a: the standard of proof is the standard of proof that applies in civil proceedings; and
b: the chief executive may, by order of the court, obtain discovery and administer interrogatories. 2003 No 52 s 107B Criminal liability for knowingly failing to carry out certain obligations
89ZZX: Criminal liability for knowingly failing to carry out certain obligations
1: This section applies to a person ( A A’s decommissioning obligations
a: carrying out or meeting the costs (or both) of decommissioning petroleum infrastructure under section 89J or 89K section 89N
b: carrying out or meeting the costs (or both) of plugging and abandoning wells under section 89R or 89S section 89V
2: A commits an offence if they do an act, fail to act, or engage in a course of conduct knowing that the act, failure to act, or course of conduct will result in A not being able to meet A’s decommissioning obligations.
3: If A is a permit holder or licence holder that is a body corporate who, during the period while they are a current permit or licence holder commits an offence under subsection (2)
4: If A is a body corporate who commits an offence under subsection (2) section 89N(2) 89V(2)
5: A person who commits an offence under this section is liable on conviction,—
a: in the case of an individual, to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or a fine not exceeding $1 million, or both; and
b: in any other case, the greater of the following:
i: a fine not exceeding $10 million:
ii: a fine not exceeding 3 times the cost of decommissioning.
6: Proceedings under this section may be commenced within 3 years after the matter giving rise to the offence was discovered or ought reasonably to have been discovered.
89ZZY: Defence to criminal liability for directors
1: In any proceeding against a director under section 89ZZX(3)
a: A took all reasonable steps to ensure A would meet A’s decommissioning obligations; or
b: the director took all reasonable steps to ensure that A would meet A’s decommissioning obligations; or
c: in the circumstances, the director could not reasonably have been expected to take steps to ensure that A would meet A’s decommissioning obligations.
2: In this section,— A section 89ZZX A’s decommissioning obligations section 89ZZX Relationship between pecuniary penalties and criminal liability
89ZZZ: Relationship between pecuniary penalties and criminal liability
1: A criminal proceeding for an offence may be commenced against a person in relation to particular conduct whether or not a proceeding for a pecuniary penalty has been commenced against the person in relation to the same conduct.
2: A proceeding for a pecuniary penalty against a person in relation to particular conduct is stayed if a criminal proceeding against the person for that conduct results in a conviction. Restrictions on indemnities and insurance
89ZZZA: Restriction on indemnities
1: A body corporate must not indemnify any director, employee, or agent, or former director, employee, or agent, of the body corporate or of any related body corporate ( person C
a: any pecuniary penalty imposed on person C under this Act; or
b: any costs incurred by person C in defending any civil proceedings in which the pecuniary penalty referred to in paragraph (a)
2: An indemnity given in contravention of subsection (1)
3: In this section and section 89ZZZB indemnify indemnity 2003 No 52 s 107D
89ZZZB: Restriction on insurance
No person may enter into a contract of insurance that indemnifies or purports to indemnify a person ( person C
a: any pecuniary penalty imposed on person C under this Act; or
b: any costs incurred by person C in defending any civil proceedings in which the pecuniary penalty referred to in paragraph (a) 2003 No 52 s 107E
5: Crown liability
89ZZZC: Effects of subparts 2 and 3 on Crown liability
1: Subparts 2 and 3
2: Subsection (1)
19: New subpart 6 heading in Part 1B inserted
Before the cross-heading above section 90
6: Offences and miscellaneous
20: Section 90 amended (Permit holder records and reports)
1: In section 90(1) in respect of all prospecting, exploration, and mining activities in respect of all prospecting, exploration, mining, decommissioning activities, and post-decommissioning activities
2: After section 90(1)
1A: Without limiting the generality of subsection (1), the records and reports required to be kept include—
a: financial records, including any financial records required to be kept and retained under the Tax Administration Act 1994:
b: commercial records, including any feasibility studies:
c: scientific and technical records:
d: any calculations made in support of the above records:
e: records, reports, statements, or any other documentation or information required under other legislation, if regulations made under this Act prescribe that they must be retained for the purposes of this Act:
f: any other records or reports prescribed by regulations.
3: After section 90(8)
8A: The chief executive may, but is not required to, publish on an Internet site maintained by the chief executive or in any other way the chief executive considers appropriate all or any of the information supplied under this section, at any time after the information is required to be made available under any of subsections (6) to (8).
4: In section 90(10) subsection (9) subsection (8A) or (9)
5: Replace section 90(11)
11: Nothing in this section requires the chief executive to send, make available, publish, or otherwise disclose any records, reports, information, or returns—
a: under sections 42B, 42C, 89ZF, 89ZK, 89ZB, 89ZC, 89ZD, 89ZE, 89ZL, 89ZM, 89ZY, and 89ZZ
b: relating to the calculation and payment of royalties by permit holders.
21: Section 90A amended (Disclosure of information)
1: In section 90A(1) 42A 42B, 42C
2: In section 90A(1) 61C 89ZC, 89ZD, 89ZE, 89ZF, 89ZL, 89ZM, 89ZY, 89ZZ, 89ZZH
3: In section 90A(1)
ea: disclosure is authorised under section 90(8A)
22: Section 97 amended (Application of monetary deposits)
1: In section 97(3) subsection (2) subsections (2) and (5)
2: In section 97(4) On the termination Subject to subsection (5)
3: After section 97(4)
5: In the case of any monetary deposit or bond held by the chief executive under a financial security required under section 89ZL
a: the funds held by the chief executive must not be released until any required decommissioning is completed, unless they are released under section 89ZN(5)
b: any interest to be paid to the permit holder must be repaid in 1 lump sum at the time when the principal sum deposited by the permit holder under section 89ZL
23: Section 99C amended (Application for warrant for entry to search)
In section 99C(1) place or vehicle place, structure, vehicle, or ship
24: Section 100 amended (Offences)
1: After section 100(2)(d)
e: section 99F
2: After section 100(4)
5: If an enforceable undertaking has been given, criminal proceedings may be taken for an offence within 6 months after—
a: the enforceable undertaking is contravened; or
b: it comes to the notice of the regulator that the enforceable undertaking has been contravened; or
c: the chief executive agreed to the withdrawal of the enforceable undertaking.
25: Section 101A amended (Interpretation)
In section 101A ship
26: New sections 104A to 104K inserted
After section 104
104A: Interpretation
In this Act,— infringement fee infringement offence
104B: Infringement offences
1: A person who is alleged to have committed an infringement offence may—
a: be proceeded against by the filing of a charging document under section 14 of the Criminal Procedure Act 2011; or
b: be issued with an infringement notice under section 104D
2: Proceedings commenced in the way described in subsection (1)(a)
3: See
104C: Who may issue infringement notices
The chief executive may, in writing, authorise an enforcement officer to issue infringement notices under this Act.
104D: When infringement notice may be issued
The chief executive or an enforcement officer may issue an infringement notice to a person if the chief executive or enforcement officer believes on reasonable grounds that the person is committing, or has committed, an infringement offence.
104E: Revocation of infringement notice before payment made
1: The chief executive or an enforcement officer may revoke an infringement notice before—
a: the infringement fee is paid; or
b: an order for payment of a fine is made or deemed to be made by a court under section 21 of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957.
2: The chief executive or enforcement officer must take reasonable steps to ensure that the person to whom the notice was issued is made aware of the revocation of the notice.
3: The revocation of an infringement notice before the infringement fee is paid is not a bar to any further action as described in section 104B(1)(a) or (b)
104F: What infringement notice must contain
An infringement notice must be in the form prescribed in the regulations and must contain the following particulars:
a: details of the alleged infringement offence that fairly inform a person of the time, place, and nature of the alleged offence:
b: the amount of the infringement fee:
c: the address of the [place where the infringement notice may be paid]:
d: how the infringement fee may be paid:
e: the time within which the infringement fee must be paid:
f: a summary of the provisions of section 21(10) of the Summary Proceedings Act 1957:
g: a statement that the person served with the notice has a right to request a hearing:
h: a statement of what will happen if the person served with the notice neither pays the infringement fee nor requests a hearing:
i: any other matters prescribed in the regulations.
104G: How infringement notice may be issued to person
1: An infringement notice may be issued to a person who the chief executive or enforcement officer believes is committing or has committed the infringement offence by—
a: delivering it to the person or, if the person refuses to accept it, bringing it to the person’s notice; or
b: leaving it for the person at the person’s last known place of residence with another person who appears to be of or over the age of 16 years; or
c: leaving it for the person at the person’s place of business or work with another person; or
d: sending it to the person by prepaid post addressed to the person’s last known place of residence or place of business or work; or
e: sending it to an electronic address of the person in any case where the person does not have a known place of residence or business in New Zealand.
2: Unless the contrary is shown,—
a: an infringement notice (or a copy of it) sent by prepaid post to a person under subsection (1)
b: an infringement notice sent to a valid electronic address is to be treated as having been served at the time the electronic communication first entered an information system that is outside the control of the chief executive or enforcement officer.
104H: Payment of infringement fees
All infringement fees paid for infringement offences must be paid into a Crown Bank Account.
104I: Reminder notices
A reminder notice must be in the form prescribed in the regulations and must include the same particulars, or substantially the same particulars, as the infringement notice.
104J: Regulations
Regulations may be made under section 105—
a: prescribing infringement offences by—
i: prescribing a duty, restriction, or prohibition for conduct that is similar to conduct, or similar to an element of conduct, for which there is a duty, restriction, or prohibition under any provision of this Act or regulations; and
ii: providing that a contravention of the duty, restriction, or prohibition is an infringement offence:
b: prescribing for those infringement offences—
i: fines not exceeding—
A: $2,000 for an individual:
B: $6,000 in any other case:
ii: infringement fees not exceeding—
A: $1,000 for an individual:
B: $3,000 in any other case.
104K: Relationship between infringement offences and other offences
A person may be prosecuted or convicted of any offence referred to in the Act (rather than proceeding under sections 104A to 104I
27: Section 105 amended (Regulations)
1: In section 105(1)(a) the manner in which such documentation or information is to be provided (including electronically)
2: After section 105(1)(g)
gaa: prescribing the records, statements, or any other documentation or information required under other legislation that must be retained for the purposes of this Act:
gab: prescribing matters for the purposes of section 42B section 42C section 89ZD
gac: prescribing requirements in relation to the subpart 2 section 89ZB
gad: prescribing matters for the purposes of sections 89ZC 89ZE 89ZF
gae: prescribing the standard or requirements that a decommissioning cost estimate submitted under section 89ZC
3: After section 105(1)(q)
qa: regulating the decommissioning of petroleum infrastructure and the plugging and abandonment of wells:
qb: exempting specified classes of permit holders or licence holders from the obligation to decommission specified classes of petroleum infrastructure, or to plug and abandon specified classes of wells, or both, or deferring any or all of those obligations:
qc: declaring petroleum infrastructure and classes or items of petroleum infrastructure to be or not to be, as the case requires, relevant older petroleum infrastructure:
qd: declaring an individual well or class of wells to be, or not to be, as the case requires, to be a relevant older well or relevant older wells:
qe: requiring permit holders and licence holders to notify the chief executive of the likely date on which production will cease at any well, or in any field, at specified times:
qf: regulating the making of payments for post-decommissioning work, the establishment and operation of accounts into which those payments are deposited, and the use of, and accounting for, funds in those accounts:
qg: exempting specified classes of permit holders or licence holders from the obligation to make post-decommissioning payments under section 89ZV
qh: prescribing requirements in relation to the ongoing monitoring of a permit or licence holder’s financial position and assessing their financial capability under sections 89ZF to 89ZK
qi: regulating the setting, obtaining and maintaining of financial securities that permit holders and licence holders may be required to obtain and maintain, which may include, without limitation,—
i: setting criteria that the Minister must consider under section 89ZM(1)(b)
ii: specifying matters to be considered by the Minister when determining the amounts that are required to be secured (including 1 or more formulas or other methods of calculating those amounts):
iii: prescribing circumstances in which certain kinds of securities will or will not be permitted:
iv: requiring certain kinds of financial securities to be held in specified situations:
v: setting a hierarchy of preferred financial securities, which may differ in different circumstances:
vi: specifying how certain financial securities must be held:
vii: setting time frames for the obtaining and maintaining of all or part of a required security:
viii: prescribing the manner in which information is to be supplied for the purposes of section 89ZL(2)
ix: enabling the Minister to determine any other specified matter in connection with financial securities:
qj: specifying the maximum amount or a scale of maximum amounts to be secured by financial securities that permit holders and licence holders may be required to obtain and maintain:
qk: regulating the setting and use of post-decommissioning payments, including, without limitation,—
i: specifying criteria for calculating the amount of post-decommissioning payments that permit holders and licence holders are required to make:
ii: setting time frames for making payments in 1 lump sum or by instalments:
iii: setting criteria to be applied in determining whether post-decommissioning payments are to be made in a lump sum or by instalments:
iv: setting criteria to be applied in determining whether to grant exemptions from post-decommissioning payments:
v: providing for refunds of all or part of a post-decommissioning payment in specified circumstances:
vi: setting restrictions on the use of post-decommissioning payments or post-decommissioning payments of a specified class:
ql: regulating the setting, obtaining and maintaining of financial securities that persons with post-decommissioning obligations under section 89ZV 89ZW
qm: prescribing matters for the purposes of section 89ZZS
4: After section 105(3)
3A: Regulations made under this section may apply in relation to licences, licence holders, and holders of a participating interest in a licence, or any class of licence or those persons, in so far as the regulations relate to subparts 2 and 3 of Part 1B
3B: Regulations made under subsection (1)(qb) subsection (1)(qb), (qc), or (qd)
a: that the Minister is satisfied are exemptions from requirements that are unreasonable or inappropriate for the exempted class of persons to comply with; or
b: if the Minister is satisfied that events have occurred that make the requirements unnecessary or inappropriate for the exempted class of persons to comply with.
28: Schedule 1 amended
In Schedule 1
a: insert the Part set out in Schedule 1
b: make all necessary consequential amendments.
29: Enactments consequentially amended
Amend the enactments specified in Schedule 2 2021-12-02 Search and Surveillance Act 2012 Summary Proceedings Act 1957