Most intensive geothermal systems are associated with young and active volcanism, and are therefore located in the Taupo Volcanic Zone, between Ruapehu and White Island. They include all the geysers and other features that discharge boiling water. Many hot springs, particularly in the South Island, are associated with faults and tectonic features. The Preservation of Hydrothermal System Features of Scientific and Other Interest - A Report to the Geological Society of New Zealand. Many geothermal features have been destroyed by activities such as the construction of roads and buildings, rubbish dumping, extraction of fluid and heat energy, and walking and bike riding off marked tracks.
Damage continues today, and many other features are under threat.
Rotorua's Geothermal Treasures. Development of the Wairakei Geothermal Power Station resulted in dramatic decline in ground water level, and the loss of all 70 geysers and 170 alkaline springs. Following the 1886 eruption of Tarawera, surface geothermal activity appeared at Waimangu, making it the only field to have been created in historical times in the world. Waimangu Geyser formed in 1904 and continued to erupt until 1904. Hot pools, fumaroles, sillica terraces.