ACT and NZ First urge delay on LNG terminal contract
Wednesday 23 September 2026 · 2 outlets · 2 reports · updated In this story Winston Peters, ACT Party, David Seymour, NZ First, Simeon Brown, Shane Jones
ACT leader David Seymour and NZ First leader Winston Peters have advised against signing a contract for a liquefied natural gas terminal before the upcoming election. Cabinet reportedly decided not to make a decision on the project today, with Seymour stating the Government should keep its options open to secure the best deal.
Key facts
3 facts
- The proposed LNG terminal is expected to cost more than $1 billion.
- Cabinet met on Wednesday but decided not to make a decision on the contract.
- Methanex is scheduled to close its remaining New Zealand factory early next year.
The full story
1 min read · 2 outlets
Cabinet decided not to make a decision on Wednesday regarding a contract for a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal. This follows previous intentions from Energy Minister Simeon Brown to reach a decision before the upcoming election.
ACT leader David Seymour stated that signing a contract before the election would be "irresponsible". He suggested the Government should keep its options open so that a future government would have choices to negotiate.
NZ First deputy leader Shane Jones expressed doubt about signing the contract before the election, noting that while a decision would be made under Cabinet authority, a disagreement within the party would be "untidy". Jones also noted that there is currently a significant amount of gas available because Maui has not closed and Methanex has shuttered.
Minister Brown noted that Genesis Energy has secured additional natural gas supplies through 2029 following the announcement that Methanex will close its final New Zealand factory early next year. Brown stated that a thorough procurement process must be completed and that multiple steps are required before a final contract is signed.
Where reports differ
- While Simeon Brown previously stated the intention was to make a decision before the election, he later noted the need for a thorough procurement process and multiple steps before a contract is signed.
Compiled from reports by Stuff and The Post.
