KAITIAKITANGA AND THE NEXT 10,000 MEGAWATTS

Abstract

Geothermal energy is a taonga, with intrinsic value in the traditional M?ori world, and economic and sociological value to contemporary M?ori. Utilisation of geothermal energy has potential to provide a range of commercial and non-commercial benefits at local, regional and national levels. M?ori retain customs and tikanga concerning surficial thermal features, and provide kaitiakitanga and recognition of their geothermal environment.
In the past, development has adversely affected some thermal areas and resulted in irreparable damage to surface features buildings etc. Regional Councils are responsible for monitoring geothermal resource development through the Resource Management Act (1991), so M?ori must balance their commercial aspirations with a realistic assessment of the capacity of the geothermal resource to support sustainable development.
Confidence in geothermal resource characterisation, identifying connection between geothermal systems and understanding the short and long-term physical and chemical effects of development are essential aspects of the sound and sustainable utilisation of New Zealand`s geothermal resources. Development of new or improved geophysical, chemical and numerical reservoir modelling tools and techniques provide reassurance to iwi, developers and regulatory authorities, who have essential roles in defining how developments should proceed.
This paper provides guidelines for sustainable use of M?ori geothermal resources, in order for interested groups to develop realistic development scenarios that balance kaitiakitanga and what hurdles need to be overcome to initiate the appropriate type and scale of resource utilisation.