NZ Geothermal Week 2026 – A resounding success
New Zealand Geothermal Week 2026 brought together more than 700 industry leaders, professionals and future leaders, alongside over 380 members of the community, for a week-long celebration of New Zealand’s geothermal sector. Held in Taupō from 10 to 15 August, the programme featured 18 events, including workshops, panel discussions, networking events, field trips and the annual New Zealand Geothermal Association Winter Seminar and Dinner. The week showcased the strength of New Zealand’s geothermal industry, from technical expertise and innovation through to the opportunities geothermal can create for investment, regional growth and a lower-emissions future.
717
geothermal industry attendees
230
businesses represented
2,753
tickets and event registrations, up 21% on 2025
380+
people attended the Contact Energy Public Open Day
Exploring opportunities, challenges and innovation
Workshops and panel discussions brought people together to explore some of the key issues and opportunities facing the sector. Topics included Māori partnerships, superhot geothermal, direct use of geothermal heat, industry regulation, investment, workforce development and New Zealand’s role in supporting geothermal development internationally.
Learning in action
Field trips took attendees behind the scenes at geothermal power stations, research facilities and businesses using geothermal energy in their operations. The visits highlighted the expertise found across the Taupō Volcanic Zone and the potential for geothermal heat and electricity to support new industries and investment.
Celebrating people and making connections
Networking remained an important part of the week. The official welcome evening, Industry Leaders Breakfast, and WING NZ Networking & Awards created opportunities to build relationships, recognise achievement and connect established industry leaders with the next generation.
NZGA Winter Seminar and Dinner
The New Zealand Geothermal Association Winter Seminar and Dinner was again a highlight of the week. Speakers and panellists explored the future of the sector, including the investment, infrastructure, technology and partnerships needed to support further geothermal development and create more value for New Zealand.
Geothermal for the community
The week concluded with the Contact Energy Public Open Day visiting the Tauhara Power Station. More than 380 members of the community took the opportunity to tour one of New Zealand’s newest geothermal power stations and learn more about the role geothermal plays in New Zealand’s renewable energy future.
Thanks
Thank you to all attendees, our Gold and Silver sponsors, lunch partners, accomodation partners and our co hosts New Zealand Geothermal Association who made this week an unforgettable experience. As we reflect on the insights gained and connections made, we look forward to the continued growth and innovation in the geothermal sector.
Event Objectives
NZ Geothermal Week is an annual event that celebrates and promotes the country's geothermal industry by bringing together key stakeholders. The event aims to:
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Increase awareness of New Zealand's geothermal resources.
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Highlight the Taupō Volcanic Zone as a center of geothermal excellence.
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Showcase the industry to local, national, and international audiences.
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Generate interest and excitement about geothermal opportunities for investment, growth, and employment.
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Provide a platform for industry forums.
The event supports long-term goals by encouraging industry engagement, promoting sustainable economic growth and fostering excitement about the world-class geothermal resource and expertises in the region.
If you are interested in getting involved with NZ Geothermal Week, including sponsorship, event ideas, hosting and speaking opportunities, or have a query about events, please contact Rick Keehan, CEO at Amplify or Kennie Tsui, CEO at NZGA.
