Reeves, R.R.; Macdonald, N.; Brakenrig, T.; Sanders, F.; Parsons, N. 2026 Aerial thermal infrared survey of the Tikitere Geothermal Field. Lower Hutt, NZ.: Earth Sciences New Zealand. GNS Science report 2026/12. 33 p.; doi: 10.21420/TZW6-SR92
Abstract
The first full-field aerial thermal infrared (TIR) survey of the Tikitere Geothermal Field (Simpson and Bignall 2016) was undertaken on 23 April 2026. The survey obtained 1630 raw TIR images that have been processed and mosaicked to produce a single, 16-bit image (Figure A.1). The survey obtained ground pixel resolution of approximately 2 x 2 m (Figure A.1). The purpose of this report is to summarise the data collection and processing methods to obtain the final TIR image, with a preliminary interpretation. The TIR data is of good quality and has enabled numerous geothermal and non-geothermal surface features to be identified and mapped to high spatial accuracy (within the limitations of the survey). The locations of TIR anomalies, interpreted to be caused by geothermal activity, are generally in agreement with areas of known surface geothermal activity (Espanola 1974). The survey has identified 115 TIR signatures that are likely to represent unmapped geothermal surface features/areas. These require ground truthing to confirm their cause. (auths)
