Aotearoa New Zealand is the world’s fifth largest geothermal electricity producer and has a unique regulatory regime, devolved to regional government to sustainably manage its geothermal resources. Public and stakeholder consultation is required in regional geothermal policy development, and indigenous Māori are consulted. This paper outlines geothermal energy policy with a focus on public participation. Brief case studies showcase successful examples of public and stakeholder participation, and of actions taken to redress historic failures, particularly in relation to Māori, who are increasingly geothermal energy developers. It discusses the changing political landscape at the national level, and how this currently intersects with the established regulatory framework at the regional level. Waikato Regional Council has applied the UNFC Resource Assessment Protocol to geothermal energy projects in its region. Bay of Plenty Regional Council has updated the Rotorua System Management Plan in full partnership with local Māori.