Best Oil, Gas & Energy Lawyers in Matamata

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Cooney Lees Morgan

Cooney Lees Morgan

Matamata, New Zealand

Founded in 1918
200 people in their team
WELCOME TO COONEY LEES MORGANCooney Lees Morgan is a full service law firm based in Tauranga, New Zealand. Founded in 1918, the firm has grown to...
Māori
English

About Oil, Gas & Energy Law in Matamata, New Zealand

The Oil, Gas & Energy Law sector in Matamata, and New Zealand at large, primarily revolves around the regulation of activities related to extraction, production, and distribution of these resources. In New Zealand, the main legislation for this sector are the Crown Minerals Act 1991 and the Resource Management Act 1991, which govern how these resources are explored, exploited and managed. However, specific local council regulations also apply in Matamata.

Why You May Need a Lawyer

Legal assistance may be required if you are an oil and gas company needing help with securing permits, rights negotiations or any legal challenges that may arise. People who own land where these resources are found may need to negotiate contracts for lease or sale rights. In addition, if you face environmental concerns related to extraction or are dealing with disputes over land rights, a lawyer with specialized knowledge in this field can provide invaluable guidance.

Local Laws Overview

In Matamata, apart from the nationwide Crown Minerals Act and the Resource Management Act, the local council regulations play a vital role in this sector. The district council may require resource consent for certain activities, and environmental regulations are strictly enforced to ensure sustainable practices. The local council also regulates noise and ground vibrations caused by extraction operations. Non-compliance with these regulations can lead to hefty penalties.

Frequently Asked Questions

What rights do I have if oil or gas is found on my land?

In New Zealand, the underlying minerals (including oil and gas) belong to the Crown, but the landowner is entitled to fair compensation if their land is affected by exploration or extraction activities.

What is resource consent and why is it important?

Resource consent is permission granted by a local council for activities that may affect the environment. It ensures sustainable practices and protects local interests.

What happens if a company does not comply with the Resource Management Act?

Non-compliance can attract legal proceedings, penalties and in severe cases, withdrawal of resource consents or permissions.

Can a community oppose an oil or gas project?

Yes, community views are an important part of the resource consent process. Communities have a right to voice their concerns and effect changes.

Are renewable energy initiatives governed by the same laws?

While some laws overlap, renewable energy initiatives are also governed by specific laws like the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act 2000 which promotes efficient use of non-renewable resources.

Additional Resources

The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment and the New Zealand Petroleum and Minerals are key government bodies overseeing the Oil, Gas & Energy sector. The Environmental Protection Authority also plays a pivotal role in maintaining environmental standards. Additionally, resourceful legal publications can be found at the New Zealand Law Society.

Next Steps

If you require legal assistance in the field of Oil, Gas & Energy in Matamata, consider consulting a lawyer specialising in this area of law. They will guide you in understanding the complexities of the law and assist you in taking necessary actions to protect your rights or comply with regulations.

Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. While we strive to present accurate and up-to-date information, we cannot guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currentness of the content. Laws and regulations can change frequently, and interpretations of the law can vary. Therefore, you should consult with qualified legal professionals for specific advice tailored to your situation. We disclaim all liability for actions you take or fail to take based on any content on this page. If you find any information to be incorrect or outdated, please contact us, and we will make efforts to rectify it.