An energy expert is confident New Zealand can do without oil and gas exploration

Cabinet has agreed to cut regulation stopping New Zealand bringing in foreign Liquefied Natural Gas - in efforts to boost energy supply and ease power bills.

Labour Leader Chris Hipkins is refusing to support the move, despite urges from the Prime Minister.

Massey University Sustainable Energy Expert Professor Emeritus Ralph Sims says there are no guarantees natural gas could even be found.

He says it's a chance to develop renewable energy generation.