Ultramafic rocks have a unique ability to produce natural hydrogen (H₂) when they undergo metamorphism in the presence of water—a process known as serpentinisation. While natural hydrogen exploration is still in its early stages globally, seeps have been documented in several locations, including New Zealand. In fact, natural hydrogen seeps have been recorded at Poison Bay and Red Hills, and hydrogen was encountered during drilling at Weora’s Greenhills permit area.

Unlike traditional methane deposits, hydrogen is unlikely to be found in pressurised stagnant reservoirs. Instead, it typically occurs as slow-flowing accumulations, continuously generated as ultramafic rocks serpentinise. This hydrogen moves through natural fractures within the rock mass, creating a dynamic and ongoing source.

At Weora, we are actively investigating the economic potential of natural hydrogen across our licence portfolio. Our research also explores whether engineered systems for in situ carbon mineralisation could enable commercial hydrogen production—unlocking a sustainable energy resource for the future.