The New Zealand Government has announced the country’s first offshore
renewable energy feasibility permit application round under its new offshore
renewable energy regime.


The round will allow developers to apply for feasibility permits covering
designated areas offshore Taranaki and offshore Waikato/South Auckland.



A feasibility permit enables developers to undertake studies and assess
the viability of a potential offshore wind development within a specified
permit area.


Developers that complete feasibility work will be required to obtain a
commercial permit, along with any other necessary consents, before they
can construct and operate an offshore renewable energy project.



The Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will publish
further details on eligibility requirements, the application process, assessment
criteria and permit conditions when the application round opens on October
19 2026.

For more information about offshore wind
farm projects across the globe, click
here.