Geothermal week

Emmolina May recently attended the Geothermal Week 2025 in Taupō, describing the event as both memorable and forward-looking. The Tauhara site provided a meaningful setting for her visit, where industry progress and personal reflections came together at the close of the week.

During the week, she highlighted the launch of the government’s draft strategy, From the Ground Up, as well as the introduction of the Geothermal Directory and Investment Guidance. She noted that these resources will give the sector greater confidence and direction as New Zealand advances its leadership in renewable energy.

With experience in both industry and education, Emmolina was particularly engaged in conversations on vocational pathways. She drew attention to the insights from Toi Ohomai Institute of Technology, which emphasized the importance of preparing future professionals for careers in geothermal. For Emmolina, this reinforced her belief that sustainable energy solutions require investment in people as much as in projects.

Emmolina also observed the strong presence of international investor partners, whose enthusiasm confirmed the global significance of Aotearoa’s geothermal sector. She reflected that New Zealand is well positioned to provide local solutions that meet worldwide renewable energy challenges.

As Geothermal Week concluded, Emmolina expressed gratitude to the New Zealand Geothermal Association for organizing an energizing and well-structured programme. She left Taupō with renewed commitment to contribute across projects, education, and policy , and with “Under Pressure” still playing in her head as the week’s unofficial theme song.