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March 18, 2025
Jones Pushes Māori Geothermal Energy Investment
Atereano Mateariki
Posted On March 18, 2025
Download AudioRegional Development Minister Shane Jones is urging Māori landowners in the Rotorua and Taupō regions to tap into their geothermal resources for economic growth.
This Friday, Jones aims to discuss a potential $60 million investment from the Regional Investment Fund to explore geothermal energy opportunities.
Jones says the existing success of Tūwharetoa hapū, which operates power stations, demonstrates the potential for iwi involvement to bolster the national power grid.
He believes that increased participation from Māori landowners can lead to both energy security and new economic opportunities for the regions.
“Obviously, if we’re going to grow our economy, expand industry and manufacturing, we need affordable, secure electricity,” says Jones.
“The iwi are eager to get started,” said Jones in a recent statement. “The focus now should be on securing investment rather than navigating the Public Works Act.”
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