Changing Resource Management of Surface Water Allocation to Meet Drilling Rig Demands

Abstract

Access to water, as managed under the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) is becoming increasingly constrained in New Zealand. Geothermal drilling operations require relatively large amounts of surface water albeit on a variable and infrequent basis to provide for drilling mud and circulation fluids. As fluids are “lost” during drilling to the deep underground formations, more fluids and water are required to provide for safe and successful drilling operations. This paper identifies key policy issues involved with surface water allocation and use, through the lens of geothermal drilling and identifying several methods to effectively manage the resource during a well programme. Investigations into current water provision within two Council regions are discussed, as well as observations of how water is to be managed in New Zealand.