New Zealand selects preferred drilling contractor for first superhot geothermal well
The Big Ben drilling rig (source: Todd Energy)
Carlo Cariaga
11 Mar 2026
Todd Energy has been selected as the preferred drilling contractor for the first superhot geothermal well in New Zealand, with drilling planned by mid-2027.
Todd Energy has been selected as the preferred drilling contractor for New Zealand’s first exploratory superhot geothermal well. Drilling is expected to start about mid-2027 at a location within the Rotoka Geothermal Reservoir in the Taupo Volcanic Zone, previously identified as having the most likely access to superhot geothermal fluids.
‘Preferred contractor’ status means the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will now enter negotiations with Todd Energy on the contract details.
Project chair Tim Groser states that the project calls for the drilling of a geothermal well to 5 to 6 kilometers depth, which is almost double that of other conventional geothermal wells drilled in New Zealand. This will be the first of a planned 3-well programme that aims to increase the knowledge on superhot geothermal.
Groser adds that Todd Energy was selected among 4 highly skilled applicants following a competitive procurement and evaluation process. “Todd Energy has a strong track record, including multiple drilling campaigns completed on time and within budget. It’s putting forward comprehensive project management and technical teams, drilling ancillary services, established safety systems, and a transparent commercial structure,” said Groser.
Drilling of the superhot well is expected to be technically complex, as it will encounter extreme heat, pressures, and corrosive fluids. As the lead contractor, Todd Energy will manage drilling, safety, subcontractors, and end-to-end planning in a high-risk environment.
Todd Energy brings with it its own Big Ben drilling rig, a New Zealand-based workforce, and an established local supply chain, thus reducing delivery risk and providing wider economic benefits.
The Coalition Government has committed up to $60 million from the Regional Infrastructure Fund to support the development of the first superhot geothermal well. More recently, the research initiative secured a further $10 million from the New Zealand Endeavor Fund.
Source: New Zealand Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment
