New Zealand Launches Supercritical Geothermal Energy Project at Rotokawa

New Zealand is preparing to break new ground in renewable energy with plans to drill its first supercritical geothermal exploration well at the Rotokawa Geothermal Reservoir in the Taupō Volcanic Zone. Regional Development Minister Shane Jones announced that design work is already underway, with the project marking a bold step in advancing clean energy innovation.

Unlocking the Potential of Supercritical Geothermal Energy

Unlike conventional geothermal wells, supercritical geothermal systems tap into zones of extreme pressure and temperature located 1–3 kilometers deeper into the Earth. These resources, still largely untested globally, have the potential to deliver several times more power than current geothermal technologies.

“This early-stage exploration could help prove the viability of supercritical geothermal energy,” Jones said. “If successful, this could be a game changer for New Zealand’s energy security and our ability to generate sustainable power at scale.”

Why Rotokawa?

The Rotokawa site was chosen after extensive geological and geophysical studies conducted by Earth Sciences New Zealand. Risk assessments confirmed its suitability, with experts identifying it as one of the best opportunities to test the feasibility of supercritical energy.

The land carries deep cultural and historical significance for the Tauhara North No.2 Trust, guardians of the Rotokawa geothermal resources. For generations, local communities have relied on geothermal energy for daily life—cooking, bathing, and traditional healing.

Collaboration Between Iwi, Government, and Industry

A Memorandum of Understanding has been signed between Tauhara North No.2 Trust, the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), and Mercury NZ, which operates the Rotokawa geothermal power station. Earth Sciences NZ will provide scientific and technical expertise.

This partnership reflects a unique collaboration between iwi, government agencies, and private industry. It also signals a recognition of the cultural guardianship of geothermal resources alongside the push for innovation in renewable energy.

Technical Challenges and Global Significance

Drilling into supercritical zones presents immense technical challenges. Engineers must contend with higher temperatures, extreme pressures, and complex geoscientific conditions. A multi-disciplinary team of local and international experts is being assembled to lead regulatory approvals, risk assessment, geoscientific modelling, engineering, procurement, drilling, and asset management.

“Drilling into these extreme zones is one of the most technically demanding frontiers in geothermal science,” Jones explained. “But New Zealand has a proud history of geothermal exploration, pioneering major development during the 1950s and 1970s when more than 40 wells were drilled across the motu.”

Government Backing and Funding

The Coalition Government has committed up to $60 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support development of the first well. Plans call for a total of three exploratory wells, which are considered the minimum needed to fully understand the energy resource.

The initial phases will focus on pre-feasibility studies, detailed well design, business case development, and validation of the site. Drilling is expected to commence within 18 to 24 months.

A Step Toward Energy Independence

If successful, this project could transform New Zealand’s energy landscape by significantly increasing renewable electricity generation capacity. It would also position the country at the forefront of global geothermal innovation.

“Safely converting and commercialising supercritical geothermal energy is the next step,” Jones said. “This project could unlock transformative, clean, renewable energy to strengthen our energy security and showcase New Zealand as a leader in sustainable energy development worldwide.”