Maari Field offshore New Zealand reaches production milestone, extension sought

The OMV-operated Maari Field in the Taranaki Basin offshore New Zealand has produced its 50 millionth barrel of oil since startup in 2009, partner Cue Energy said in a results update.
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July 24, 2025
Courtesy Cue Energy
Offshore Maari Field wellhead platform and Raroa FPSO vessel
Oil is produced through a wellhead platform adjacent to the Maari Field and connected to the Raroa FPSO vessel, which is about 1.5 km from the wellhead platform.
Courtesy Cue Energy
Taranaki Basin map, highlighting PMP 38160
Cue Energy holds a 5% interest in petroleum mining permit 38160, which contains the Maari and Manaia producing oil fields, and it is located in the Taranaki Basin, about 80 km offshore New Zealand.

The OMV-operated Maari Field in the Taranaki Basin offshore New Zealand has produced its 50 millionth barrel of oil since startup in 2009, partner Cue Energy said in a results update.

Recent production levels were impacted by downhole faults that occurred in the MN1 and MR4 wells in April, with repairs held up due to reinstallation of the wellhead platform workover unit following an overhaul and recertification. 

Repairs to MNI have now been completed with the well back online, and work on MR4 should be completed during the current quarter.

Once both wells are operational, oil production should rise above 5,000 bbl/d. OMV’s application to extend the Maari permit (PMP 38160) by a further 10 years is out for review with the New Zealand government.

The PMP 38160 joint venture partners are OMV (operator, 69%), Horizon Oil (26%) and Cue Energy (5%).

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