New Zealand’s Waikato Regional Council has approved the building of a second geothermal power plant on tribal land at Taupo.

The joint venture brings together Tauhara North No 2 and Mighty River Power, which opened the 140MW Nga Awa Purua plant last month, reports Radio New Zealand.

The venture is expected to provide jobs and training as well as sustainable income for a trust representing almost 800 Ngati Tahu beneficiaries.

If no appeals are lodged, ground for the project should be broken by the end of the year, according to the broadcaster.