New Zealand has won the first Fossil of the Day award at COP-28 in Dubai.

It's been awarded for the National-led Government’s campaign promise it'll revoke the last Government’s ban on offshore oil exploration.

Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says Labour got the same award last year.

He says it's just a distraction from the summit's real business.

"We're focused on the things that really matter, and that's engaging with our national partners when we get over there on the ground. It's something that happens, but it's in the background."

LISTEN ABOVE

New Zealand has won the first Fossil of the Day award at COP-28 in Dubai.
It's been awarded for the National-led Government’s campaign promise it'll revoke the last Government’s ban on offshore oil exploration.
Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says Labour got the same award last year.
He says it's just a distraction from the summit's real business.
"We're focused on the things that really matter, and that's engaging with our national partners when we get over there on the ground. It's something that happens, but it's in the background."
LISTEN ABOVE

With a straight down the middle approach, Heather du Plessis-Allan Drive on Newstalk ZB delivers the very latest news and views to New Zealanders as they wrap up their day.