THE FUTURE OF RENEWABLE ENERGY
INNOVATING TODAY, SUSTAINING TOMORROW
As New Zealand’s (NZ) energy sector navigates the commercial reality of providing sufficient infrastructure across a large country with a comparatively small population, it seeks to strike a delicate balance.
Key to achieving this equilibrium is being able to generate enough power in peak winter months, whilst not over-investing in or holding onto underutilised assets during periods of lower demand.
“This makes our industry incredibly dynamic and constantly challenging as we navigate how to best support our generator clients,” opens Alan Stewart, CEO of MB Century.
A leading energy services provider specialising in renewables, the
company is well placed to support the government’s Electrify NZ commitment, which seeks to double the country’s renewable energy output by 2050.
Offering world-class drilling expertise, reservoir services, geothermal and hydropower (hydro) engineering, and comprehensive power station refurbishment, MB Century’s suite of services is extensive.
Additionally, the company offers rehabilitation project delivery through dedicated project managers and experienced hydro and geothermal mechanical fitters, all supported by specialist standalone workshops providing precision machining, fabrication, and industrial coatings services.
“Ours is an exciting and dynamic market, and our breadth of services is critical in helping to manage clients’ tight timeframes – particularly during critical outages, maximising uptime and our ability to respond,” he explains.
As it continues to overcome industry challenges and recognise the commercial realities of power supply, the company will work collaboratively with key market players to build a stable and growing talent pool for the future.
Alan Stewart, CEO
Steered by a holistic and sustainable approach, MB Century is committed to advancing the future of renewable energy, providing reliable, innovative solutions for its clients. Alan Stewart, CEO, reflects on 75 years of success for the company
Writer: Lily Sawyer | Project Manager: Connell Privett
In support of the energy sector’s push towards supercritical and geothermal exploration, MB Century’s decades of expertise mean it is ideally positioned to provide innovative and technical energy solutions.
“Our strong capabilities and extensive experience provide the necessary foundation to present cutting-edge geothermal technologies that can help support harnessing the immense potential of supercritical geothermal resources,” Stewart tells us.
RELIABLE AND SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS
In the past 75 years, MB Century has evolved from a division of the NZ government’s former Ministry of Works – initially formed to oversee exploratory drilling – into an energy solutions provider offering comprehensive services across the geothermal, hydro, hydrogen, and industrial sectors.
“All of this underscores our commitment to delivering reliable and sustainable energy solutions,” Stewart confirms.
Part of the Tūaropaki Trust (Tūaropaki), a Māori organisation that owns and operates a geothermal power station, 11 hectares of geothermally-heated glass houses, and a product processing facility that utilises geothermal heat, MB Century has access to an extensive library of industry activities.
For example, as part of a recent joint venture between Tūaropaki and Japanese construction company, Obayashi Corporation, it has been
MUARA LABOH GEOTHERMAL POWER PLANT PROJECT
This geothermal steam field design for Fuji Electric’s Muara Laboh Geothermal Power Plant project in West Sumatra, Indonesia, is a key example of MB Century’s expertise in delivering comprehensive and effective engineering solutions for the geothermal sector.
The company supported the design of the steam gathering system, which delivered a timely and cost-effective solution for the process design service, including the sizing and detailing of the dual flash separation plant.
Its experienced geothermal engineering and design team, based in Taupo, was responsible for the design of the dual flash separation plant, piping, and pressure let-down station.
Throughout the project, MB Century also provided valuable on-site commissioning assistance and, using advanced design software such as AutoPIPE, MicroStation, and SOLIDWORKS® Simulation, ensured it adhered to industry standards and was completed with the highest level of precision.
Having become operational in 2019, the power station is a vital asset to Indonesia’s renewable energy infrastructure today.
Its successful commissioning is testament to MB Century’s ability to manage complex geothermal projects globally and deliver quality solutions that meet the technical needs of high-profile clients like Fuji Electric.
This collaboration also highlights the company’s ongoing contribution to the global shift towards sustainable and efficient energy generation.
involved in constructing NZ’s first green hydrogen plant.
The initial stages of the project, including equipment reviews and local compliance requirements, were managed by MB Century, whilst it played an integral role in the procurement of equipment, Hazard and Operability (HAZOP) study, power supply design, alongside the facility’s overall compliance.
Furthermore, it is proud to continue to operate and maintain the plant today.
“Being part of Tūaropaki has allowed for an alignment of values, particularly in terms of our commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable development,” Stewart prides.
Working alongside Tūaropaki and supporting its aspirations has allowed MB Century to enhance its ability to deliver innovative, sustainabilityfocused solutions whilst reinforcing its dedication to creating a lasting and positive impact.
“All of this is underpinned by the strong ethical standards that have defined us for over 75 years,” he adds.
As such, MB Century will continue to share its deep geothermal knowledge with a range of clients, particularly those operating within the Ring of Fire zone – NZ’s most volcanically active plate boundary that powers countless geothermal stations.
Meanwhile, having grown its hydro services throughout the country, the company is also expanding into the South Island, New Zealand, and targets international growth.
GLOBAL REACH
MB Century is proud to have been a pioneer of renewable energy advancement since its inception, having created the globe’s first wet steam power station in Taupo, through to its recent involvement in NZ’s first green hydrogen plant.
“We continue to advance the
“OUR SUCCESS IS NOT MEASURED SOLELY BY THE PROJECTS WE COMPLETE, BUT THE TRUST WE CULTIVATE, FOSTERING STRONG RELATIONSHIPS, AND OUR CONTRIBUTION TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE”
– ALAN STEWART, CEO, MB CENTURY
industry by innovating technologies with world-leading geothermal wireline tools,” Stewart informs us.
The company’s ongoing collaboration with top research and science organisations continues through its partnership with preeminent geological research institute, the Institute of Geological and Nuclear Sciences (GNS Science), which supports leading renewable energy initiatives.
It connects regularly with schools, universities, and the community through public events to help disseminate industry information and attract the next generation of talent
through successful apprenticeship and graduate schemes.
“We regularly attend both national and international geothermal conferences, whilst also providing workshops to a range of global clients,” he expands.
By supporting clients across Indonesia, Taiwan, and the Philippines, MB Century seeks to partner with countries on the path to implementing renewable energy strategies.
“We appreciate our position as a world-leading geothermal and power solutions provider and, as such, seek to leverage our expertise,” Stewart outlines.
Providing bespoke pumping and power solutions and services to New Zealand industry and infrastructure
Introducing NES Hire
NES Hire Power & Pump Solutions is a leading industrial hire company specialising in power and pump solutions. Our core product range includes diesel generators, diesel and submersible pumps, diesel and hybrid lighting towers, and associated accessories. We cater to a diverse client base spanning industries
such as events, civil construction, geothermal, utilities, mining, and underground projects. What started as a small operation in Waihi has grown into a well-established business with 40 employees across five branches in the North Island. Despite our growth, we remain committed to providing tailored, reliable, high-quality solutions for every client.
NES Hire’s Origins
NES Hire began as a local company in Waihi, New Zealand, with a simple yet powerful mission: to provide exceptional service and practical solutions from project conception to completion.
No matter the scale or complexity of a job, our team is dedicated to maintaining a personal, hands-on approach. Even though we have grown beyond our humble beginnings, our Waihi branch is still a hub of expertise, where our skilled personnel can manufacture or modify equipment
to meet the unique demands of any project. This adaptability ensures our clients receive the right solutions, every time.
What Sets Us Apart
Our ability to provide bespoke solutions is what truly differentiates us. Unlike many competitors, we don’t just supply equipment — we tailor it. Thanks to our experienced team and specialist Waihi branch, we can modify any piece of our equipment to meet project-specific requirements. This level of customisation, combined with our commitment to reliability
and service excellence, makes us a trusted partner in the industry.
Project Spotlight
One of our standout recent projects involved the installation and commissioning of a ventilation system with gas detection in a tunnel being bored under State Highway 1 — the main entrance into Wellington. Despite the client having little site knowledge and no electrical plans, our team overcame these challenges to deliver a seamless solution. Our ability to quickly adapt to evolving site conditions, troubleshoot issues, and provide highly reliable equipment ensured the project was completed efficiently before the Christmas break. The client had previously
experienced frequent breakdowns with other suppliers’ gear, making our dependable solutions a gamechanger for the success of their project.
Looking Ahead
Our key focus for the coming year includes:
- Expanding into the South Island to better serve a growing client base.
- Diversifying our product range with cutting-edge solutions, including Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), camera towers, and an expanded hybrid lighting tower lineup.
- Continuing to refine and enhance our services, ensuring we remain
at the forefront of the industry by providing innovative and sustainable solutions.
Final Thoughts
At NES Hire, we’re more than just an equipment provider — we’re a solutions partner. Our commitment to reliability, innovation, and customer-focused service ensures we continue to set industry benchmarks whilst helping our clients achieve their project goals efficiently and effectively.
Our Partnership with MB Century
NES Hire has a longstanding relationship with MB Century, providing critical power and pumping solutions for well testing and drilling operations. Our services include:
- Supplying both hot and cold-water pumps for well testing and site works.
- Providing temporary water supply pumps during new well drilling.
- Delivering generators to support existing pump operations.
- Offering lighting towers for rig sites as required.
Our Sales and Systems Design Specialist, Georgia, works closely with MB Century from the initial design phase to project completion, ensuring each solution is precisely tailored to their operational needs.
Phone: 0800 999 582
Email: info@neshire.co.nz
Website: www.neshire.co.nz
MOKAI MK26 END-TO-END PROJECT
Spearheaded by MB Century, this critical initiative is aimed at enhancing the fuel security of the Mokai Geothermal Power Station (Mokai), with a focus on drilling MK26, a new well, and ensuring the continuous supply of geothermal fluid.
Working alongside trusted partners like SAJJ Geothermal Limited, Halliburton NZ, and General Compression Ltd, MB Century has leveraged a combination of cutting-edge technology and engineering expertise to design, drill, and connect the new MK26 well to Mokai.
The project involved not only the drilling of the well using MB Century’s Drill Rig32 and extensive wireline and output testing, but also the complete design, procurement, and commissioning of the new pipeline to deliver twophase geothermal fluid to the plant.
In addition, the company carried out vital remedial sealing and well clearing activities, demonstrating its versatility, all provided within budget.
The successful integration of the new well into Mokai’s system, which has been operational since 2000, ensures continued support for Tūaropaki’s operations and serves as a testament to MB Century’s capacity to deliver comprehensive solutions in the renewable energy sector, offering clients innovative engineering and technical capabilities.
The MK26 project exemplifies the forward-thinking and integrated approach needed to secure and optimise energy resources for the future as renewable energy continues to grow in importance..
Across Southeast Asia, a wealth of untapped natural resources, combined with myriad governments’ commitments to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, presents an opportunity to accelerate the development of renewable energy, with geothermal energy set to play a key role.
“Our strength is partnering and collaborating with clients to provide cost-effective, innovative, and safe energy solutions,” he asserts.
As such, MB Century’s proven track record of providing stateof-the-art technical innovation and deep industry knowledge will be instrumental in unlocking new geothermal resources and ensuring sustainable, low-carbon energy options for countries across Southeast Asia.
RELIABILITY, RESPECT, RESPONSIBILITY
Thriving as more than a leading energy solutions provider, MB
Servicing New Zealand and overseas industries for almost 60 years
Century’s business model is powered by a set of core values that drive every project, decision, and relationship.
“At the heart of our business are the principles of pono, aroha, and kaitiakitanga – key values in how we strive to operate,” Stewart says.
These principles have helped the company earn a reputation for reliability, respect, and responsibility over the course of its 75 years in existence, creating a legacy that it is proud to build on every day.
Pono, meaning “doing the right thing, at the right time, for the right reason”, is the cornerstone of MB Century’s philosophy, driving it to approach every challenge with honesty, transparency, and integrity.
More than just a commitment to ethical business practices, pono is the company’s promise to its clients, partners, and each other that it will always do what is right.
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Contact us today for our expertise and to find out how we can help with your engineering needs:
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“OUR PROACTIVE APPROACH NOT ONLY STRENGTHENS THE WORKFORCE BUT ALSO ENSURES A PIPELINE OF FORWARDTHINKING LEADERS WHO WILL SHAPE THE FUTURE OF CLEAN ENERGY SOLUTIONS”
– ALAN STEWART, CEO, MB CENTURY
“This dedication has earned us the trust of our stakeholders and shaped us into the ‘team that gets the job done’,” he smiles.
However, pono is just part of the story; the company’s belief in aroha, the art of building meaningful and empathetic relationships, is what binds it together.
With a belief that great relationships are built on understanding, acceptance, and support, MB Century embraces the uniqueness of each individual and values diversity. As such, team members, partners, and
clients are all part of the company’s whānau (family),.
Finally, kaitiakitanga embodies guardianship of the environment and reflects MB Century’s unwavering commitment to sustainability.
Through this key value, the company recognises the sacredness of the physical environment and is therefore dedicated to protecting it for future generations.
“This is why we continually innovate, ensuring that our activities have a positive impact on the land, waterways, and air,” Stewart elaborates.
Holster Engineering Co (2003) Ltd has a long and established history with MB Century and its customers, ensuring quality and completion times are maintained during many hydro and geothermal station overhauls.
Through collaboration with its business partners, MB Century holds itself accountable to the land and the communities it serves, and as it looks to the future, it remains grounded in these core values.
“We will continue to push
forwards with integrity, empathy, and responsibility, striving to be the company that not only meets the needs of today but builds a better tomorrow.
“Our success is not measured solely by the projects we complete, but the
trust we cultivate, fostering strong relationships, and our contribution to a sustainable future,” he shares.
ENABLING A SUCCESSFUL FUTURE
MB Century is a professional development partner (PDP) of Engineering New Zealand (EngNZ), the nation’s professional engineering body that administers the necessary integrity and qualifications of the country’s engineers.
“The purpose of the PDP programme is to provide engineering graduates with an exciting opportunity to experience a variety of fields within their engineering discipline and the wider company,” Stewart explains.
Those who graduate from the programme gain a broad knowledge of the business and the services MB
ROXBURGH HYDRO POWER STATION TURBINE REHABILITATION PROJECT
MB Century is delivering the on-site execution for Contact Energy’s Roxburgh Hydro Power Station Turbine Rehabilitation Project—a landmark upgrade that modernises one of New Zealand’s oldest and most iconic hydroelectric stations. Originally commissioned in 1956, the Roxburgh turbines are undergoing a comprehensive overhaul to increase generation efficiency and extend the lifespan of the assets for decades to come. The project, delivered in partnership with Voith Hydro, a world reconginsed international OEM, will see four generating units fully refurbished over a two-year programme.
At the core of the upgrade are new turbine runners, distributors, and associated components supplied by Voith Hydro. These critical parts will replace the aging original equipment, significantly improving hydraulic performance and enabling the generation of additional gigawatt-hours annually. MB Century’s role focuses on the precision disassembly, inspection, and reassembly of each unit—work that requires extensive technical expertise.
What sets this project apart is not just the scale of its engineering ambition, but the strength and capability of the team behind it. MB Century has assembled a diverse and experienced crew that blends long-standing internal expertise with a skilled local workforce. This approach reflects MB Century’s broader strategy to build and embed capability in the South Island.
As the Roxburgh turbines move into a new era of performance, MB Century continues to demonstrate its ability to deliver complex, high-value engineering projects with precision, care, and strategic foresight. This project is a clear example of our commitment to excellence in hydro services, regional skill and people development, and collaborative delivery—hallmarks of our approach across New Zealand’s energy sector.
Century offers through foundational training.
As such, the company believes in the importance of supporting its people through ongoing skills development to ensure that, as a business, it is kept up to date with industry trends and is able to provide an engaging, supportive, and attractive workplace for its team.
Moreover, as the global energy sector continues to shift towards sustainability, MB Century remains deeply committed to attracting and educating the next generation of professionals and experts in the renewable energy field.
Through strategic partnerships and hands-on training programmes, it is empowering new talent with the technical knowledge and practical expertise required to meet the
growing demands of the global renewable energy sector.
“Our proactive approach not only strengthens the workforce but also ensures a pipeline of forward-thinking leaders who will shape the future of clean energy solutions,” he details.
This focus on talent development is a key part of the company’s broader vision to support the energy transition whilst contributing to local communities and international sustainability goals.
Elsewhere, MB Century is dedicated to helping clients achieve their renewable energy generation goals by providing tailored, innovative solutions that align with the growing demand for clean, sustainable power.
“We are keen to continue to deliver high-quality work and best-in-class industry solutions,” Stewart surmises.
By leveraging its technical capabilities and industry expertise, the company will continue to support and enable the international market to navigate the complexities of renewable power generation, reduce its carbon footprint, and contribute to a cleaner, more resilient energy future.
“This commitment to supporting clients underscores our role as a trusted partner in the global transition to renewable energy,” he concludes passionately.
Tel: +64 7 376 0422
info-NZ@mbcentury.com mbcentury.com
