Energy Minister says proposed LNG terminal remains 'critically important' despite Methanex closure

Tom RoseJournalist·NZ Herald·2 Sep, 2026 10:18 PM3 mins to read‌Energy Minister Simeon Brown says the closure of Methanex makes the LNG importation terminal 'critically important'. Video / Ryan Bridge TODAYEnergy Minister Simeon Brown says the construction of a liquefied natural gas import terminal remains “critically important” for New Zealand despite the country’s largest gas user planning to wind down operations.

Yesterday, Taranaki-based company Methanex announced it will sell its remaining contractual New Zealand natural gas

next year after 40 years of operation.