Energy and Resources Minister Simon Bridges today announced the start of the Block Offer 2015 process for awarding oil and gas exploration permits.

“Consultation now begins with iwi and local authorities in the areas being proposed for onshore and offshore exploration,” says Mr Bridges.

“This is an important first step in the Block Offer process and I encourage iwi and local authorities to take part.  Their feedback ensures that any areas of sensitivity are carefully considered before the 2015 tender round is finalised.”

Energy and Resources Minister Simon Bridges says the ASB Community Trust contribution to funding the insulation of houses in Auckland, as part of the Warm Up New Zealand: Healthy Homes programme, is an important example of partnership between Government and community organisations.

“Nearly 2000 low-income homes in Auckland will be insulated, with the Trust contributing $1 million in funding.  The proportion of Government funding will decrease from 60 per cent – the typical contribution as part of Healthy Homes – down to 33 per cent. 

Air links between New Zealand and the Philippines are set to improve with the signing today of an air services arrangement, says Transport Minister Simon Bridges.

The arrangement signed today by Transport Minister Simon Bridges and the Philippines Ambassador, Virginia Benavidez, amends the 2007 Air Services Agreement between New Zealand and the Philippines.

The new arrangement allows Air New Zealand to begin its plans to code-share to the Philippines with Singapore Airlines from January 2015.

The Government has today accepted Solid Energy’s decision not to pursue the Pike River drift re-entry project and committed to working with the Pike River families on next steps for the Pike River site, says Energy and Resources Minister Simon Bridges and Acting Conservation Minister for issues relating to Pike River, Nick Smith.

Energy and Resources Minister Simon Bridges has today welcomed the launch of New Zealand’s first region-wide wood energy heat hub that will help fuel the Southland economy.

Wood Energy South is a joint initiative between the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and Venture Southland that will partner with local businesses, schools and healthcare facilities to help them convert to cleaner, renewable wood burning technology. 

Auckland Council are welcome to have a debate about future transport infrastructure investment plans, but the Government remains sceptical about the options being presented, Transport Minister Simon Bridges said today in response to the release of ‘Funding Auckland’s Transport Future’, a report commissioned by the Auckland Council.

“We agree that Auckland must have a transport system that meets the demands of its growing population and we are committed to working with the Auckland Council to help make sure Auckland succeeds. 

Transport Minister Simon Bridges is encouraging road users to keep safe as they travel on the roads over Labour Weekend.

“Many people take advantage of the long weekend to see family and friends, or to get out on their motorcycle or bike, so roads can be busier than usual,” Mr Bridges says.

“Taking the time to make sure that you and your vehicle are in good nick before you get on the road, sticking to the road rules and being considerate of other road users all combine to make journeys safer.”

Energy and Resources Minister Simon Bridges says an agreement signed between the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA) and one of New Zealand’s largest trucking companies is a significant milestone for the Heavy Vehicle Fuel Efficiency Programme.

“EECA has been working with industry groups since 2012 to increase awareness of the potential for fuel efficiency and I am delighted the HW Richardson Group is now on board, with 800 trucks in 30 fleets nationwide consuming 19 million litres of fuel per year.

Transport Minister Simon Bridges wants boat users to make safety the top priority, as New Zealand’s first Safer Boating Week begins today.

“Safer Boating Week is an excellent initiative that raises the awareness of boat safety, and what risks are out there on the water.  We have seen in the last few days the tragic consequences when something goes wrong,” Mr Bridges says.