The Perth-based company yesterday said the exploration well had been drilled to a total depth of 1125m but will now be plugged and abandoned following the log and RFT pressure data.

Following this, Carnarvon said the Aztec-7 rig will be used for well testing and remedial operations while the drill pad for POE-9, the next exploration well, is completed.

POE-9 will appraise the Na Sunun-1 exploration well, which was drilled in 1997 and flowed oil at 1400 barrels per day from a fractured volcanic sill before watering out. POE-9 is about 400m east and 150m up-dip from Na Sanun-1, targeting several volcanic sills in structural closure.

It is expected to spud in early December and will be the last well of the eight-well Phase 1 oil-testing program.

Meanwhile, testing operations are continuing on the previously drilled and successful six wells of Phase 1.

Carnarvon has a 40% stake in the permit while operator Pan Orient holds 60%.