Exploration and Development of the Rotorua Geothermal Area

Abstract

The tapping of geothermal energy i n Rotorua has been taking place for several hundreds of years. Surface manifestations have been supplemented by progressively deeper well drilling which has now reached into the bedrock. The engineering impacts of the production and recharge of geothermal fluids extend beyond energy considerations, however. The aggressive nature of the fluids i n terms of material corrosion and deterioration need to be recognised. Other impacts on the engineering performance of present-day high capital value developments also need to be addressed.