Fires and Flotillas: Opposition to Offshore Oil Exploration in New Zealand

Abstract

The growing cost of oil, driven by rising demand and instability in major oil-producing states, has encouraged the development of domestic sources. This article examines a campaign against offshore oil exploration in New Zealand, which brought together indigenous and environmental activists. It identifies the main actors and the character of the resistance, placing it within the broader context of environmentally focused protest in New Zealand and the response of the state. The profile concludes by considering the outcome of the campaign and the implications for future actions against offshore oil exploration.

Keywords:

• Flotilla
• oil exploration
• Māori
• environmental movement
• protest