University of Auckland to support geothermal energy exploration in Whakatāne

A University of Auckland-led geothermal exploration initiative in Whakatāne has secured $3 million in support from the Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF). The funding was announced alongside the unveiling of New Zealand’s first national geothermal strategy on 17 March.

The project will be led by the University’s Geothermal Institute, and will involve drilling a small number of exploratory temperature-gradient wells to better understand geothermal heat resources beneath parts of the Whakatāne area.

Temperature-gradient wells measure underground temperatures and geological conditions, providing the data needed to determine whether geothermal heat could support future community infrastructure, industry, or energy resilience in the region.

Leading the project is Associate Professor Dr John O'Sullivan, co-director of the Geothermal Institute, who said the initiative represents an important early step in understanding whether geothermal heat could play a role in the region’s future energy system.

"Geothermal heat is one of New Zealand’s most reliable renewable energy resources. Projects like this help communities understand what resources exist beneath the ground so that informed decisions can be made about how they might be used in the future."

Dr O’Sullivan said the University looks forward to working closely with local partners as the project develops.

"Our next priority is engaging with local stakeholders, including landowners, iwi and community leaders, to discuss how this work can be undertaken in a way that reflects local priorities and values."

Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Innovation, Professor Frank Bloomfield, said the initiative also highlights the University’s wider contribution to Aotearoa’s energy future.

"The University of Auckland has deep geothermal expertise and research leadership through the Geothermal Institute, which is internationally recognised for its research and training. This project reflects the role universities can play in supporting communities and government with the knowledge needed to explore sustainable energy opportunities."

The $3 million investment forms part of the $50 million ringfenced within the RIF for geothermal development.

Three projects have so far been supported through this allocation, totalling $23 million. Alongside the University’s exploration work, two $10 million loans have been granted to the Taumanu and Kopura geothermal projects near Rotomā and Kawerau.

"Early-stage geothermal exploration involves high upfront costs. Targeted government investment will help de-risk exploration and get more projects off the ground," Regional Development and Resources Minister Shane Jones said.

The exploration programme will focus on gathering scientific data about underground temperature conditions. Any future geothermal development decisions will be made separately and in partnership with local stakeholders.

The Geothermal Institute at the University of Auckland has an extensive track record supporting evidence-based geothermal development in New Zealand and internationally, helping governments, communities and industry better understand geothermal resources and their potential role in low-emissions energy systems.

The Whakatāne Geothermal Temperature Gradient Well Programme aims to strengthen regional energy resilience while contributing to New Zealand’s broader transition to secure, low-emissions energy sources.

Further engagement with local stakeholders will take place in the coming months as planning for the exploration programme progresses.