This history starts from a Maori perspective, then after focussing on initial major steps, steadily moves into the modern era. It recognises the significance of geothermal tourism as an early development option. There have been multiple investigation and development phases focused on the Taupo Volcanic Zone (TVZ), with frequent increments in generation over the last 25 years, especially following the establishment of a competitive electricity trading market and a resource management regime (Fig. 1). Growth in the last 10 years has been remarkable, though another development hiatus has arrived. The developments are briefly traced along with the changing roles for government and private developers and support companies through this period. Further details can be found in other papers in this issue. Finally, a brief view is given on possible future development. (c) 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.