Eastern Bay of Plenty tribe Te Whanau a Apanui says it is now better prepared should another company come looking for oil in the Raukumara Basin off the east coast of the North Island.
Brazilian company Petrobras has decided to quit its exploration in New Zealand, after conducting a preliminary survey of the basin, and is handing back to the Government its petroleum exploration permit awarded in 2010.
The company's surveying activities off the North Island last year were met with a series of protests, including some by the environmental group Greenpeace.
Te Whanau a Apanui is also opposed to deep sea oil drilling in what they say is their backyard.
Robert Ruha from the tribe says the iwi would now put up a stronger objection to oil and push instead for renewable energy.
The Government has said other exploration companies will have an interest in New Zealand.
