The Government will not review the decision to allow oil exploration off the East Cape despite protests by several hundred people yesterday, Energy and Resources Minister Gerry Brownlee says.The Government has granted an exploration permit to Brazilian co
The Government will not review the decision to allow oil exploration off the East Cape despite protests by several hundred people yesterday, Energy and Resources Minister Gerry Brownlee says.
The Government has granted an exploration permit to Brazilian company Petrobras, allowing it to search for oil in the Raukumara Basin off East Cape. The company has been awarded a five-year petroleum exploration permit covering 12,330 sq km.
Protest organiser Manu Caddie said East Coast residents were concerned about the environmental risks of the oil drilling operation and Petrobras had a "shameful environmental record".
Ngati Porou leader Api Mahuika said he expects the protest to be the first of many.
The Government did not consult with iwi about the permit in advance, he said.
Mr Brownlee apologised for that, Radio New Zealand reported.
However, he said the agreement with Petrobras would remain in place.
Iwi did not have a right of veto over oil exploration, Mr Brownlee said.
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