Growing our geothermal future with Japan
Last month we held a memorable cultural exchange event at Whakarewarewa Village in Rotorua.
The one-day event brought together participants from Japan and New Zealand.
Fostering friendship
On a crisp July morning, our team met with a delegation from Japan to grow a deeper indigenous understanding and appreciation of each other's rich cultural heritage and connection to geothermal landscapes.
New Zealand and Japan are countries with vibrant cultures and striking geological and geographical similarities. Both island nations stand on tectonic boundaries along the Pacific Ring of Fire, experiencing similar geological challenges and opportunities, such as geothermal resources.
Our cultures share deep-rooted connections to geothermal phenomena; in Japan, the tradition and appreciation of onsens, or hot springs, reflects Māori connection to geothermal taonga. We also have shared similar trajectories in developing holistic approaches to geothermal resources, including tourism in parallel with power generation.
Valuable insights
The purpose of the day event was to increase our understanding of each other’s culture with geothermal landscapes, and strengthen our bilateral relationships.
The attendees from Japan included representatives from Mitsubishi Gas Chemical (MGC), Obayashi Corporation, and Kisojiban, with First Secretary Nori Adachi representing Ambassador Osawa from the Embassy of Japan in Wellington.
The event began with a traditional Māori Pōwhiri, followed by hongi, mihi, and included a geothermally powered Hangi lunch. We exchanged presentations that emphasized the importance of culture and science for both countries. We shared each of our cultural aspirations for geothermal resources and we were able to identify shared goals. The discussions during the day highlighted the importance and value of understanding each other's cultural heritage to foster better collaboration. We are thankful for Whakarewarewa Village and North Asia CAPE for making the day possible.
This event was hosted by the Tuhourangi Ngati Wahiao people from the Whakarewarewa Māori Village in Rotorua. GNS has had a long-standing working relationship with this Māori Tourism business for both monitoring and research purposes over many years.
Legacy of geothermal progress
Both countries are recognised as global leaders in geothermal energy. Both Māori and Japanese cultures have a strong affinity with geothermal landscapes where local tribal authorities remain present over geothermal features such as onsen and ngāwhā. New Zealand has been a pioneer in geothermal energy since the Wairakei power plant began operations in 1958, predating Japan's geothermal ventures by eight years.
GNS Science has played a pivotal role in the geothermal energy sector for over 80 years, significant contributing to the development of geothermal generation in New Zealand, and 35 other countries including Japan. Our work in identifying new geothermal resources, enabling developments, and innovating technology has set industry standards globally.
Shared vision for the future
New Zealand and Japan share the potential for a brighter, geothermal-powered future. Both nations have strong, long-term cultural links to geothermal resources and are committed to a holistic approach to working with geothermal energy that involves growing baseload electricity production from renewable, low-carbon sources alongside tourism and other economic initiatives.
We also share an urgent need to increase electricity generation and security for a sustainable and resilient future. As we look back on this day and our recent participation on the Prime Minister’s Trade Delegation to Japan, we are filled with optimism for the future of geothermal energy collaboration.