Kia ora, we are a group of students who are extremely concerned about the effects offshore oil drilling has on our environment, specifically New Zealand. We wish for all offshore oil drilling in New Zealand to stop. 

The impact of offshore oil drilling will be catastrophic on our environment we must stop it before it is too late. We have a chance to make an impact and have our voices heard, sign the petition to help save our planet. 

In 2011 a boat crashed in the Bay of Plenty with around 350 tonnes of oil spilling into the ocean. This was the worst environmental disaster for New Zealand in decades. The damage oil has on the New Zealand environment is catastrophic, in this oil spill around 1,250 birds died but conservationists estimate a significantly larger amount died. An oil spill off the cost of Mexico resulted in 25,900 marine mammals, 82,000 birds and 6,165 dead from it. The technology used in offshore oil drills can affect the way animals communicate. This changes their breeding behaviours and can cause a decrease in offspring yield. It is predicted that if an oil spill were to occur, the oil will spread over 500 km away from the initial spill, affecting massive amounts of New Zealand wildlife. 

In New Zealand, there are 22 offshore exploration permits around the country meaning there are 22 different areas where oil drilling is allowed. Oil drilling in New Zealand contributes to our energy sector with New Zealand's energy sector emits 40% of all of New Zealand's greenhouse gas emissions. This is the second largest emitter in New Zealand. 

Please sign our petition to save our environment and help make a difference.