We’re proud to announce that Todd Energy has been selected by the New Zealand Government as the preferred lead contractor to drill the country’s first exploratory superdeep, superhot geothermal well, marking a potential milestone in the future of renewable energy.
The pioneering project aims to explore supercritical geothermal resources by targeting depths of up to 5–6 kilometres – almost twice as deep as conventional geothermal wells. If successful, the well could represent a step change in renewable energy development and materially strengthen New Zealand’s long-term energy security.
Todd Energy’s selection followed a competitive procurement process, with the company chosen from four applicants. Todd Energy intends to help deliver the New Zealand-first well to explore the potential of this vast, untapped renewable energy source. The project will contribute to building national knowledge of supercritical geothermal systems and their role in the energy transition.
Todd Energy CEO Mark Macfarlane said the company brings the people, systems, equipment and established local supply chain to deliver the project, including its own Big Ben rig and a New Zealand-based workforce.
“Todd Energy is proud to contribute its capability to a project that will be delivered alongside Government and industry partners, helping advance understanding of supercritical geothermal and its potential role in supporting a secure, low emissions energy future for New Zealand.”
“The consistent performance of our skilled teams over many years has built the trusted track record that underpins opportunities like this and reinforces Todd’s reputation as a trusted operator in complex, nationally significant energy projects.”
Drilling to superdeep depths presents significant technical challenges, including extreme heat, pressure and corrosive conditions. In 2025, it was publicly announced that land within the Rotokawa Geothermal Reservoir in the Taupō Volcanic Zone had been selected as the preferred site for the exploratory well.
‘Preferred contractor’ status means the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment (MBIE) will now enter negotiations with Todd Energy on the contract details.
16/03/2026