Geothermal

Geothermal fields in New Zealand

Geothermal systems can be found in many parts of New Zealand, but mainly in the North Island.

Key operational activities and priorities

Find out more about our key operational activities and priorities within the geothermal sector

Regulatory framework

In our work with the geothermal industry, we enforce the Health and Safety at Work Act 2015 (HSWA) and the Health and Safety at Work (Hazardous Substances) Regulations 2017

Self-managing shallow geothermal well systems

This guidance is primarily for hotel and motel owners who have geothermally heated swimming pools or mineral pools, or plant such as steam boxes

Geothermal notifications

This quick guide provides information about what you, as a geothermal bore owner or manager, need to do. You must provide certain information to us and you must notify us if a notifiable accident or dangerous incident occurs.

Shallow geothermal well systems

The purpose of this guidance is to provide sufficient mandatory rules, recommendations and commentary to enable shallow geothermal wells to be drilled and operated safely.

Apply for a Geothermal Bore Manager Certificate

Apply for a Grade A or Grade B bore manager certificate or to renew your existing certificate.

Petroleum and geothermal industry safety alerts

Links to safety alerts that might be of interest to workers in the petroleum and geothermal sectors.

Hydrogen sulphide

This fact sheet describes the risk posed by high concentrations of hydrogen sulphide, especially in businesses operating or located near geothermal bores. Hydrogen sulphide (H2S) is a toxic gas which occurs in a variety of natural and industrial settings.

Publications

Read our high hazards industry publications, including our latest major hazard facilities, petroleum and geothermal annual report.