Integrating 3D seismic interpretation, well log analysis and static modelling for characterizing the Late Miocene reservoir, Ngatoro area, New Zealand

The late Miocene thick accumulations of submarine fan and slope fan deposits namely the Mount Messenger Formation, represent low resistivity reservoir within Taranaki Basin of New Zealand. Despite their hydrocarbon potentiality, there are no previous integrated studies conducted to characterize these thick deposits in Ngatoro area, lying within the Taranaki Basin. This research gap amplified the motivation for conducting an integrated investigation by utilizing multidisciplinary datasets and techniques. The present study aims at evaluating, discriminating and delineating the geological and petrophysical characteristics of the Mount Messenger Reservoir in 3D space. The used techniques include seismic structural interpretation, 3D structural, petrophysical and facies modelling with well log and core data analyses and fault seal analysis. The formation is dissected by steep NNE-SSW normal faults forming grabens/half-grabens and horsts. The formation exhibits good to very good reservoir quality, based on the permeabilities and porosities. The facies model comprises 39.4% fan units and 60.6% claystone with a general increase of fan units towards the west and NW directions. Two types of submarine fans are recognized by their log patterns; basin floor fans and slope fans. The fault seal analysis reveals that the majority of the fault planes are considered as impermeable. The present study highlighted the potentiality for further development of exploration in Taranaki Basin and surrounding areas.

Automated summary

This study evaluates and characterizes the geological and petrophysical characteristics of the Mount Messenger reservoir in the Taranaki Basin using various techniques. The research reveals that the formation has good reservoir quality and an increase in fan units towards the west and northwest directions. Fault seal analysis indicates that most fault planes are impermeable. The study highlights the potential for further exploration in the Taranaki Basin and surrounding areas.