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Geothermal Strategy: From the Ground Up
The New Zealand Geothermal Association (NZGA) welcomes the Government’s launch of “From the Ground Up: A strategy to unlock New Zealand’s geothermal potential”, released in March 2026.
The strategy sets a clear and focused pathway for Aotearoa to strengthen its position as a global leader in geothermal development. The NZGA strongly supports the strategy's vision that: “New Zealand is a global leader in sustainable geothermal development, delivering innovation, resilience and inclusive growth for future generations.”
This strategy represents a significant step forward in “turning the dial” for New Zealand’s geothermal sector. It reflects key priorities that the NZGA has long championed — connection, innovation, advocacy and education — and provides a framework to better coordinate efforts across government, industry, iwi and regional stakeholders.
“This strategy is an important milestone for New Zealand’s geothermal sector. It signals a clear commitment to unlocking the full potential of our ‘always-on’ renewable resource for electricity and energy — not only for energy security, but for regional economic growth and Māori-led development. The opportunity now is to move with pace, align policy and investment, and turn this vision into tangible projects and outcomes on the ground."
Kennie Tsui, Chief Executive, New Zealand Geothermal Association
The NZGA is committed to supporting the successful implementation of the Strategy and will continue to advocate for:
- A fit-for-purpose regulatory framework that enables innovation and investment;
- Risk-mitigating mechanisms to support early-stage geothermal exploration and development;
- Investment in subsurface data, capability, and workforce development;
- Growth in geoheat applications to unlock new industrial and regional opportunities; and
- Strong and enduring partnerships with tangata whenua as kaitiaki of geothermal resources.
The NZGA looks forward to working closely with Government, industry and stakeholders to ensure the strategy delivers meaningful and lasting outcomes for Aotearoa.
Funding Secured for Geothermal Projects
During the launch of the strategy, Minister Jones announced designated funding to help progress the aims of From the Ground Up. $50 million has been ringfenced from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to be used for geothermal ventures, with $23 million of grants already allocated to three projects within the Bay of Plenty region.
The Taumanu and Kopura Projects (Rotomā and Kawerau, respectively) are both being delivered by Eastland Generation in partnership with local Māori land trusts, and the Whakatāne Geothermal Temperature Gradient Well Programme will be run by the University of Auckland's Geothermal Institute.
The aim for the ringfenced funding is to de-risk exploration and improve the viability of more geothermal projects, ultimately increasing Aotearoa's uptake of the resource. The NZGA congratulates the successful recipients and acknowledges the importance of this investment in enabling early-stage projects and regional growth.The NZGA looks forward to working closely with Government, industry and stakeholders to ensure the strategy delivers meaningful and lasting outcomes for Aotearoa.
NZGA Board Meets Minister Jones
The NZGA board had the opportunity to meet with Minister Jones in the morning prior to the launch of From the Ground Up. During this candid conversation, board members explored further the Minister's ambitions behind the strategy and how he envisaged the NZGA's role as the sector expands and strengthens its offerings. The discussion was encouraging, with the Government showing clear support for the industry and indicating a willingness to listen to the concerns and aspirations of the sector representatives.
Looking Ahead
These events will have a lasting impact for the global geothermal community, and the New Zealand Geothermal Association looks forward to supporting the ambitious targets of the Government's geothermal strategy whilst serving our members and our community.
