Source: New Zealand Government
Funding for two iwi-led geothermal projects near Rotorua will help build the knowledge needed to better understand the Bay of Plenty’s geothermal potential, Regional Development Minister Shane Jones says.
The Regional Infrastructure Fund will provide a $3.82 million loan towards the $5.53m Ngāti Rangiteaorere geothermal exploration programme in the Tikitere-Ruahine geothermal field, northeast of Rotorua.
A $3m grant will support research into the Waimangu geothermal system, the world’s youngest, formed by the 1886 Mount Tarawera eruption.
“Rotorua has deep geothermal knowledge and capability, and geothermal is already an important part of the Bay of Plenty economy. But there is still much to learn about the region’s geothermal potential and the opportunities it could enable,” Mr Jones says.
“This early-stage work will build that understanding, while supporting Māori land-owner led stewardship and creating opportunities for specialist contractors, skills development and employment during delivery.”
The Ngāti Rangiteaorere geothermal exploration project, led by a subsidiary of the Ngāti Rangiteaorere Koromatua Council, will explore and test the geothermal resource on Ngāti Rangiteaorere land, building a clearer picture of its characteristics and potential future uses.
The Waimangu programme, led by the Ngāti Rangitihi and Tūhourangi Tribal Authority, will undertake research drilling and monitoring to improve understanding of the protected geothermal system, while safeguarding its significant environmental, cultural and tourism values and generating wider public-good knowledge.
“The Government’s From the Ground Up geothermal strategy recognises that high upfront costs, uncertainty and gaps in geothermal knowledge can be barriers to exploration and research. It sets a clear direction for building science and technical capability, strengthening regional economies and supporting iwi and hapū aspirations for geothermal resources,” Mr Jones says.
“These projects put the strategy into action by building knowledge of important geothermal systems, supporting iwi-led stewardship and providing a stronger evidence base for future decisions.”
Any future development leading from the projects would depend on the results of the research and exploration, further funding and investment, regulatory and consenting requirements, and appropriate protection of environmental and cultural values.
Original source: https://nz.mil-osi.com/2026/11/03/government-backing-iwi-led-geothermal-potential/