Rotorua Geothermal System Review

Written By Hana Tapiata

The Bay of Plenty Regional Council (BOPRC) are currently undertaking a review of all geothermal provisions relating to the Rotorua Geothermal System.

We want to ensure that you are aware of this process, to advise you of the planned Tūhourangi Tribal Authority response, and to offer support to Hapū in engaging with this process.

All policies relating to the Rotorua Geothermal System currently sit within the Rotorua Geothermal Plan and the Regional Natural Resources Plan. This review will include and combine all geothermal provisions into the RNRP. It will also:

  • Review and monitor effectiveness of current planning provisions

  • Review the Councils' understanding of geothermal

  • Identify community values

  • Develop system management plans

  • Weigh up different management options and their costs and benefits

The Rotorua Geothermal System Management Plan (SMP) which details the proposed changes has been released, and BOPRC are receiving feedback until 8 December 2023. The feedback will then be considered by a joint panel of Councilors and haukāinga representatives before the SMP is adopted by Council in 2024.

The haukāinga rōpū relates to the three pā under Te Ahi Kaa Roa, including Whakarewarewa and Ngāpuna. Our own Corey Ruha has been involved in the review process as part of this arrangement.

It is important that we are part of informing these policies as they directly relate to our Geothermal taonga, to ensure they give effect to customary interests in the first instance. As such, Tūhourangi Tribal Authority are drafting feedback to the proposed changes which will be circulated for feedback from Hapū and uri by Monday 27 November before it is submitted. This submission seeks to support and compliment the values and aspirations that have already been shared by our haukāinga rōpū throughout the review process.

We would also like to offer support to Hapū in providing their own feedback if they wish to do so. A submission template, as well as our draft and final submission will be provided. If you would like further support from TTA we strongly encourage you to get in touch to discuss what this may look like.

Further information

Hana Tapiata https://www.hanatapiata.com
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