About Us

Leading with
Passion

We’re deeply passionate about the potential of geothermal energy and are committed to making it a significant part of our planet’s sustainable future. Our cornerstones — innovative education, ground-breaking research, and expert consultancy — are designed to advance the science and application of geothermal technology. 

We’re proud to be at the cutting edge of this field and equally proud of our commitment to the sustainable management of geothermal resources. It’s our mission to share our passion for equitable and sustainable energy with the world. This dedication doesn’t just put us at the heart of the global geothermal community, it makes us a leader in geothermal energy.  

Together, we can play our part in achieving our vision of a sustainable energy future. Welcome to our journey.

 

Ru & Ollie

Founded in 1978

We’ve been fuelling passion for geothermal energy for over four decades. Since 1978, the Geothermal Institute has been combining education, research and consulting in geothermal energy.  

We’ve built on the legacy of pioneering kiwi endeavours such as at the Wairakei geothermal field which is still a significant contributor to our nation’s renewable energy generation. Our collective scientific acumen and engineering prowess have enabled us to contribute significantly to international geothermal power developments and sustainable management of geothermal resources in Aotearoa New Zealand. 

With more than 1800 graduates gracing the global stage with distinguished qualifications in geothermal energy, our institute continues to work closely with industry, governments, and research organisations around the world.

University of Auckland. Faculty of Engineering.

Our Mission

At the core of our work at the Geothermal Institute is a bold mission – pioneering sustainable energy solutions for a brighter and more equitable future.

We firmly believe in driving change through dedicated teaching, innovative research, and cutting-edge professional services, all while fostering global connectivity to ensure a just transition towards sustainable energy practices.

Our dedication to sustainable energy innovation is not just about advancing the field, it’s about creating a more sustainable and equal world for everyone.

Our Vision

We are unwavering in our commitment to sustainability, motivated by our interest in renewable energy and a vision of a carbon-neutral future.  

Recognising our unique position to make a tangible difference, we actively contribute to climate change projects and promote the growth of the renewable energy movement. Our goal extends beyond developing energy solutions – it’s about fostering a sustainable future for the coming generations.

Tui placement

The Powerhouse

Get to know the people driving change towards a greener and sustainable future.

Photo of John O'Sullivan.

Dr John O’Sullivan

Co-Director

Photo of Associate Professor Sadiq Zarrouk.

Associate Professor
Sadiq J. Zarrouk

Co-Director

Photo of Di Whiting

Di Whiting

Research Operations Manager

Photo of Professor Mike O'Sullivan

Professor Michael O’Sullivan

Professor

Dr Bridget Lynne portrait

Dr Bridget Lynne

Senior Research Fellow

Photo of Dr Eylem Kaya

Dr Eylem Kaya

Senior Research Fellow

Photo of Adrian Croucher

Dr Adrian Croucher

Senior Research Fellow

Photo of Bart van Campen

Dr Bart van Campen

Teaching Fellow

Photo of Oliver Maclaren

Dr Oliver Maclaren

Senior Lecturer

Photo of Michael Gravatt

Dr Michael Gravatt

Senior Lecturer

Photo of Ru Nicholson

Dr Ruanui ‘Ru’ Nicholson

Senior Lecturer

Angus Yeh portrait

Angus Yeh

Research Engineer

Photo of Bei Nagoro

Bei Nagoro

Research Assistant

Photo of Ken Dekkers

Ken Dekkers

Research Engineer

Photo of Ryan Tonkin

Dr Ryan Tonkin

Research Fellow

Photo of Dr Theo Renaud.

Dr Theo Renaud

Research Fellow

Photo of Alexander Catalinac

Alexander Catalinac

Research Engineer

Our Doctoral Candidates

Photo of Rony Nugraha

Rony Nugraha

Doctoral Candidate

Claire Newton

Claire Newton

Doctoral Candidate

Julian Xicara Lopez

Julian Xicara Lopez

Doctoral Candidate

Get in touch

Do you have a question or need assistance?
Drop us a line and we'll respond as soon as we can.

Geothermal Institute
Level 3, 70 Symonds Street, 
Grafton, Auckland, New Zealand
geothermal@auckland.ac.nz