New Zealand's Geothermal Pioneers
Aotearoa's developed geothermal industry boasts a rich legacy built on the vision and dedication of enterprising scientists, engineers and researchers. These pioneers have shaped our understanding of geothermal resources, developing innovative techniques that have established New Zealand as a world leader in geothermal energy.
This page highlights a number of these geothermal pioneers, showcasing the work that they did, and the impact that they continue to have on our industry.
Please note, this is work in progress and this page will be updated as the project continues. If you would like to contribute towards any future biographies, then get in touch via the contact form.
John Banwell was a Physicist at the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR). His geothermal career started in 1948 with DSIR's initial investigations into the development of geothermal resources in the central North Island. In this role he was heavily involved in the development of the Wairakei steam field, making breakthroughs in the necessary technology for monitoring the wells. Following his time at Wairakei, he went on to support international geothermal projects overseas, initially for the Federal Electricity Commission of Mexico and subsequently for the United Nations. Banwell's learnings and publications have shaped the advancement of the geothermal industry to what it is today.
Read more on his accomplishments here.
Dick Bolton was a Civil Engineer at the Ministry of Works (MoW). He joined the Wairakei Geothermal Power Project team in 1956, and went on to become Chief Geothermal Engineer for MoW followed by overseas roles with the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs, imparting learnings to international colleagues and supporting the utilisation of geothermal worldwide. Bolton played a vital role in developing New Zealand’s geothermal resources, promoting reservoir engineering and supporting global geothermal projects & education.
Read more on his accomplishments here.
Gordon Dawson was a Geothermal Scientist at the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR). He spent 41 years at DSIR, from 1950-1991, contributing to significant advances in geothermal knowledge, in areas which had had limited to no previous investigation. During his extensive career he developed key techniques for measuring near-surface ground temperatures and heat flow, transforming geophysical methods in New Zealand and beyond.
Read more on his accomplishments here
Russell James was a Chemical Engineer at the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research (DSIR). He joined DSIR’s Geothermal Research Centre at Wairakei in 1956, making significant contributions to the work underway to develop New Zealand's first geothermal power station. His innovative work on two-phase flow transmission laid the foundation for efficient and reliable testing of geothermal wells worldwide. He went on to work on many international geothermal projects, as well as lecturing at institutions in California, Hawaii, Reykjavik and New Zealand's own Geothermal Institute (University of Auckland).
Read more on his accomplishments here
