Gas operator status

Gas distributors may need to apply for gas operator status to perform certain activities in some areas.

These activities can include:

  • the right to enter local roads to build and maintain fittings
  • the right to apply to the District Court for entry to level crossings, to build and maintain fittings.

Applying for gas operator status

If you’re planning to become, or are, a gas distributor and you think you need gas operator status to carry out your work, you need to fill out an application form.

The Minister of Energy and Resources can confer operator status under section 5 of the Gas Act 1992. The Minister must be satisfied that a declaration is necessary to enable the applicant to start or carry out business as a gas distributor.

Application form

Fill out the following application form to apply for gas operator status:

Application form for gas distributors seeking gas operator status [PDF, 611 KB] 

You must answer all parts of the form and provide as much supporting evidence as possible to satisfy the application criteria.

You need to explain why you are seeking operator status and the objectives of the work you propose and whether it crosses road or rail.

Where to send your application

Email your completed application form to ResourcesGasFuel@mbie.govt.nz

Or post your completed application form and any supporting information to:

Resource Markets Policy
Building, Resources and Markets Group
Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment
PO Box 1473
Wellington 6140

Other enquiries

For all enquiries about gas operator status email info@mbie.govt.nz.

Last updated: 29 May 2023