The amount of compensation that can be claimed from those responsible for oil spills has increased from $411 million to $1.5 billion.

The Maritime Transport Amendment Bill passed its third reading unanimously last night.

"The bill will ensure that in the event of an oil spill from a tanker there is significantly more compensation made available to deal with any clean up," Genter said.

"This is about ensuring that those responsible for oil spills cover the cost, not the New Zealand taxpayer."