Draft strategy for consultation

This strategy envisions a future where New Zealand continues to lead globally in geothermal science, research, and innovation; attracts investment into reliable, renewable baseload energy; and harnesses a wide range of opportunities – from protecting and valuing the significant contribution of geothermal tourism to emerging industries such as mineral and gas recovery from geothermal brine and geothermal microorganisms.

Through targeted action and collaboration, this strategy aims to ensure the continued development of geothermal energy to support a resilient, low-emissions economy and thriving regional communities.

To achieve the vision, 3 interconnected outcomes have been identified to guide action and investment. These outcomes reflect the breadth and depth of opportunity offered by New Zealand’s geothermal resources, while aligning with wider government priorities. They provide a framework for unlocking our geothermal potential in a way that is innovative, sustainable and collaborative.

While the intent of this strategy is to be broad reaching, there is a specific opportunity for geothermal energy to contribute more significantly to New Zealand’s energy mix. We have therefore included an energy-specific goal under the second outcome to further focus activity towards a tangible target: to double geothermal energy use by 2040.

Achieving this will require coordinated action across government, industry, tāngata whenua, and research communities. It reflects our commitment to a low-emissions future, energy security, and economic development – while upholding the principles of kaitiakitanga and ensuring benefits are shared across generations.

This strategy connects with wider government priorities and strategies

The draft strategy supports the Government’s goals of economic growth, energy security, infrastructure delivery, regulatory efficiency and emissions reduction. It builds on objectives prioritised under the Energy portfolio by expanding low-emissions electricity generation and process heat solutions to help double renewable energy and strengthen security of supply.

Acknowledgement of the ongoing Waitangi Tribunal inquiry (Wai 2358)

We acknowledge that the National Freshwater and Geothermal Resources kaupapa inquiry is currently under way in the Waitangi Tribunal (Wai 2358). In the development of the draft geothermal strategy, officials have been cognisant of this ongoing inquiry, have proactively engaged with iwi and hapū in its development, and welcome further and ongoing engagement. This draft strategy includes an action to consider the Waitangi Tribunal’s findings and recommendations when they are released.

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