Regional controls on fluid flow in geothermal systems of the Taupo Volcanic Zone, New Zealand

Abstract

ABSTRACT The Taupo Volcanic Zone (TVZ) provides almost 20% of New Zealand’s electricity production through seven of its 23 high-temperature geothermal systems. Fluid circulation in geothermal systems is influenced by permeable pathways, heat sources, and topography. To explore influences on systems in the TVZ, we have created regional-scale heat and fluid flow models using TOUGH2. We modelled several potential influences individually and in combination: TVZ rift boundaries, the densely faulted Taupo Fault Belt, varying thickness of volcanic cover, topographic loading, and localised heat sources inferred from magnetotelluric data. The locations of seven of the nine geothermal systems in our study area can be explained by TVZ-scale convection influenced by localised deep heat sources and hydraulic gradients due to topography. Regional-scale geology appears to be an additional influence at Rotorua and Ngatamariki, where cold recharge within the Taupo Fault Belt pushes modelled upflow towards the rift margins. At Ohaaki, modelled upflow is northwest of the system unless a dipping contact between basement and more permeable cover rocks is included. Modelled upflow zones do not correspond to geothermal systems at Te Kopia and Haroharo Volcanic Complex, which we hypothesise is related to uplift along the Paeroa Fault and shallow impermeable lava domes respectively.