An investigation of the thermal and tectonic history of Pluto-1 hydrocarbon exploration well, Taranaki Basin, New Zealand using fission track analysis. PPL38098 PPL38453

This report details an investigation using fission track analysis of a suite of samples recovered from Pluto-1. Pluto-1 is a well drilled along the eastern margin of the Taranaki Basin, within the Taranaki Fault Zone. The report assesses the thermal and tectonic history for Pluto-1. Specific objectives of the investigation included the following: a) estimation of the maximum paleotemperatures for each sample; b) estimation of the timing and style of cooling of sample host rocks from maximum paleotemperatures; c) estimation of the paleogeothermal gradients operating prior to cooling; d) detailed FT interpretation of the thermal history of Pluto-1; and e) discussion of the implications of the inferred thermal and tectonic history for hydrocarbon prospectivity.