Refinery revisited

NZ First is investigating the feasibility of reopening the Marsden Point oil refinery as part of its coalition commitment.

The party says that the refinery’s closure in 2022 robbed Northland of a major employer and put New Zealand’s fuel security at risk.

Minister for Regional Development Shane Jones says the study will also include planning for transitioning to low carbon fuels and consideration of the infrastructure needed to increase the use of methanol and hydrogen.

A Request for Proposals is being developed and the study is expected to start later this year.