The Christchurch City Council has revealed its likely stance on the Government's granting of oil drilling permits off the coast of Canterbury.
Councils around the country have until 14 November to provide the Government with submissions on the permits.
A hint of what would be in the council's response was provided by deputy mayor Vicki Buck on Thursday who said oil drilling would threaten the Marine Mammal Sanctuary off Banks Peninsula.
"There is no capacity within New Zealand to respond to a spill. That relies on a statement that the oil companies themselves will make, but which we don't get to see."
Ms Buck said while the risks of oil exploration were substantial, the benefits were few, with most oil being exported by foreign-owned companies.