Side-by-Side and Opposing Fields: Simultaneous Geothermal Protection and Development - the Case Study of Ngatamariki, New Zealand

Abstract

The Ngātamariki geothermal field is located within the Waikato Region in the Taupo Volcanic Zone, New Zealand. Whilst the Ngātamariki field is identified for development under the relevant statutory planning framework, its resource boundary is located as little as 2.5 km from resource boundary of the famous Orākei Korāko geothermal field. Orākei Korāko is identified for total protection. It is known as the birthplace of the local Māori tribe (Ngāti Tahu-Ngāti Whaoa) and possesses impressive geothermal features of immense cultural value to Māori that also provide significant geodiversity, biodiversity, scientific and tourism values to New Zealanders more generally. This paper will discuss the various technical, regulatory and stakeholder challenges that Rotokawa Joint Venture (a partnership between Tauhara North No.2 Trust and Mercury NZ Limited) faced as it embarked on the large-scale greenfield Ngātamariki generation project. The paper will focus on the challenges specific to Ngātamariki and Orākei Korāko’s opposing classifications and small separation distances. This paper will also document how Rotokawa Joint Venture overcame the challenges presented by these circumstances, and in doing so, will provide an example of development success for others in similar predicaments.