New name, same superhot kaupapa (purpose)
Published: 20 April, 2026
New Zealand’s pioneering superhot geothermal undertaking, formerly known as the New Zealand Supercritical Geothermal Project, is now ‘GeoShot NZ’.
‘Geo’ refers to geothermal energy and the geological systems that give rise to superhot conditions in Aotearoa New Zealand. ‘Shot’ refers to superhot, reflecting the extreme temperatures the project will encounter deep underground. ‘NZ’ anchors the project firmly in New Zealand, distinguishing it from other supercritical exploration projects around the world.
The name signals an ambitious exploration into the deep heat of Papatūānuku (Mother Earth). It reflects both the project’s intent and its global significance.
“New Zealand has a long history of pioneering geothermal innovation,” says GeoShot Governance Group Chair Tim Groser.
“While this project is exploratory rather than commercial, to eventually be able to harness the immense potential of superhot geothermal energy would be a major milestone for our country and for the global transition to clean energy.
“The name GeoShot NZ captures the unique opportunity we have to explore something incredible and ambitious. We are excited to begin this next chapter as we drill deeper and push the boundaries of geothermal science,” Mr Groser says.
GeoShot NZ is being led by a top-tier New Zealand team of technical experts, responsible for designing the well, identifying specialised equipment, and planning the steps needed to reach extreme depths. Earth Sciences NZ is contributing scientific and technical expertise, building on research funded through the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment’s Endeavour Research Fund and decades of study in the Taupō Volcanic Zone.
GeoShot NZ governance and technical teams
New Zealand is part of a growing international movement in superhot geothermal exploration, alongside Iceland, Japan, Italy, and the United States. The project is supported by an international peer review panel, bringing together leading global experts to help guide GeoShot NZ’s next steps.
Deep geothermal project experts announced — Beehive.govt.nz