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Story: Geothermal energy

In case of poisoning

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In case of poisoning

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is highly toxic, and in geothermal regions there is always a risk of poisoning, especially if concentrations build up in confined spaces. In 1965 the Bay of Plenty telephone directory listed a number to call for Rotorua residents in case of suspected poisoning.

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Alexander Turnbull Library

Reference: Bay of Plenty telephone directory (1965), inside front cover

Permission of the Alexander Turnbull Library, National Library of New Zealand, Te Puna Mātauranga o Aotearoa, must be obtained before any re-use of this image.

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How to cite this page

Carol Stewart, Geothermal energy – Effects on the environment, Te Ara – the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, https://teara.govt.nz/en/document/5441/in-case-of-poisoning (accessed 4 June 2026).

Story by Carol Stewart, published 2 March 2009.