New Zealand's geothermal sector is globally recognised and continues to grow, playing a pivotal role in advancing both our national renewable energy future and the global transition to cleaner, ore sustainable energy sources.
Over 95% of New Zealand's geothermal generation is located in the Taupō Volcanic Zone, which stretches from the Central Plateau through to the Bay of Plenty and Whakaari / White Island. There are nine developed geothermal reservoirs in this region, in addition to Ngawha in Northland, together forming the backbone of New Zealand's geothermal capability.
Māori have a deep and enduring connection to geothermal energy. As kaitiaki (guardians), investors, operators and employees; iwi and hapū are central to realising the sector’s potential. Entities such as Tuaropaki Trust not only own and operate significant geothermal assets, but also embed tikanga and mātauranga Māori, ensuring this taonga is developed and sustained with care and responsibility.
New Zealand’s geothermal electricity generators now produce approximately 1,207 MW of renewable electricity, enough to meet around 20% of the nation’s total electricity needs. Recent major investments have further cemented New Zealand’s global position, with Contact Energy commissioning the 174 MW Tauhara Power Station and 51 MW Te Huka 3 plant in late 2024. Construction of the 101 MW Te Mihi Stage 2 project is also underway, alongside Mercury’s 46 MW Ngā Tamariki expansion, both expected to boost capacity within the next two years. In addition, Eastland Generation and the Proprietors of Taheke 8C have secured consent for the Taheke geothermal project, aiming to add another 35 MW of capacity by 2028. These developments reflect over $2 billion in active and planned geothermal investment, reinforcing geothermal’s role as the only renewable baseload energy source in Aotearoa - capable of reliably delivering 24/7 power regardless of weather conditions.
Globally, New Zealand remains the fifth largest geothermal power producer, showcasing local expertise and technology that not only power communities across Aotearoa, but also hold significant potential to support geothermal growth and decarbonisation efforts worldwide.
Beyond electricity, geothermal heat (geoheat) displaces fossil fuels in industrial processes, providing over 8 PJ annually to sectors like timber processing and food production. The industry is targeting a doubling of this usage by 2030, contributing to lower emissions and more resilient supply chains. Emerging opportunities, including the sustainable extraction of valuable minerals such as lithium and silica, further position geothermal as a cornerstone of the future energy mix.
Since its launch in 2021, NZ Geothermal Week has evolved into a dynamic showcase of geothermal innovation, capability and collaboration. Co-hosted by Amplify and the New Zealand Geothermal Association (NZGA) and supported by sponsors, partners and event hosts, the week has welcomed over 7,000 attendees to 75+ events over four years.
In 2025, we invite you to be part of the conversation as we explore “Geothermal: New Zealand’s Global Opportunity”. Together, we will celebrate the sector’s local successes and global ambitions - where our expertise, partnerships and resources can help shape a sustainable energy future, not just for Aotearoa, but for communities around the world..
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NZ Geothermal Week 2024 is proudly brought to you by co-hosts Amplify and the New Zealand Geothermal Association.
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.