A bold experiment in picking winners

A bold experiment in picking winners
Man on a growth and energy mission: Resources Minister Shane Jones. (Image: Getty)
Pattrick Smellie
Shane Jones’ backing for exploring super-critical geothermal technology may be the most exciting idea the New Zealand Government has advanced since the Think Big projects.But this is not a Think Big project. It is a carefully calibrated and staged investigation into an existing energy source where this country has a competitive advantage and serious need.It will be up to private capital to exploit the opportunity if proven.There should be a queue if it is.Put simply, if this very hot fluid “boiling” just below the Earth’...

More Economy

'Anti-toxin wave': Gallagher’s Goodnature investment case
Primary Sector

'Anti-toxin wave': Gallagher’s Goodnature investment case

‘We look after animals. We don't typically kill them.’

Banks carry almost $1b of unseen flooding risk: research
Economy

Banks carry almost $1b of unseen flooding risk: research

The fresh academic research came as the reporting season opened.

Kiwibank looks to grow as FY profit tightens
Finance

Kiwibank looks to grow as FY profit tightens

Kiwibank has flagged the NZ economy to improve in 2026.

Staff reporters 21 Aug 2025
Energy shortage reduces and increases regional emissions
Economy

Energy shortage reduces and increases regional emissions

Lack of gas reduces industrial production in Taranaki, but Waikato coal increases.

Ian Llewellyn 21 Aug 2025