WestSide said Paranui-8 reached total depth of 1061m and significant coal seams are now being under-reamed before the well is completed for production testing later this month.
The decision to drill the additional Paranui-8 well was made last week following promising gas shows while drilling the previous four pilot wells.
The expanded pilot is expected to enhance prospects for certifying gas reserves
within the Paranui CSM pilot, according to WestSide.
The Paranui pilot includes three appraisal wells, Paranui-5R, 6R and 8, and two
observation wells Paranui 4 and 7.
The three appraisal wells will be placed on an extended production test following the completion of Paranui-8.
The joint venture partners are reviewing plans for the next stage of activities at Paranui.
WestSide is operator and holds a 50% stake in Paranui, while Sunshine has the remaining 50%.