| Title | Innovative Māori Geothermal Development Partnership between Tauhara North No.2 Trust and Mercury NZ. Reflections on the 26 year Journey. |
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| Authors | Aroha Campbell, Ben Pezaro |
| Year | 2026 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | |
| Abstract | This paper examines the historical evolution, innovative commercial partnership, and major milestones of the geothermal development relationship between Tauhara North No.2 Trust and Mercury NZ Ltd. Over the past four decades, these two pivotal New Zealand entities played a crucial role in advancing the nation’s geothermal growth story and have done it in a way that respects the vital contributions from Indigenous Geothermal Peoples. The paper highlights the relationship principles, key individuals, challenges, and achievements along with the pioneering commercial arrangements and mutual benefits derived from developing the Rotokawa and Nga Tamariki geothermal fields in the Taupō region of the North Island, New Zealand. Tauhara North No.2 Trust and Mercury NZ are partners in a joint venture that has enabled the development of these geothermal fields, currently generating over 260 MW, with another 50 MW due for commissioning in late 2025. The success of the relationship was founded on establishing clear shared values of trust, wealth creation, and sustainable geothermal reservoir development for current and future generations. The innovative commercial model allowed the Trust to utilize their whenua (land) to secure a robust revenue stream while minimizing upfront capital investment and maintaining significant development control and options for equity ownership. Mercury was able to deploy capital and expertise for a larger geothermal development program that now supports the company’s 8,000 GWh of renewable electricity generation. The relationship has benefited from the early establishment of supportive governance that fostered joint decision-making, educational development, and preparing of future leaders. |