Northpower matches growth

Work has started on a 15-megawatt substation within the Mangawhai Central development area to help meet population growth.

Northpower chief executive Andrew McLeod says the new substation will increase supply capacity and reliability in the area.

“It is a material investment for Northpower, and one of a number of staged investments being made to support ongoing growth and development in the area,” McLeod says.

“In completing projects of this type, it is important that Northpower work closely with local hapu to appropriately acknowledge the history of the site, and the changing nature of its use.

“Te Uri O Hau have been guiding us through this process at Mangawhai and have been extremely generous with their time, advice and support.”

The new substation will initially support 1500 homes and businesses with capacity for future growth.

It has been designed to fit in with the surroundings, consisting of a modern tilt slab building to house all the electrical equipment.

We acknowledge the generosity of Ngāti Manuhiri, the amazing work of the Tamahunga Trappers, and the unsung contribution of all the landowners and sponsors who we work with for creating this moment of celebration.”

Thank you

A big thank you to everyone involved along the journey. There is still a lot of work to do but if we work together, we can achieve great things.

He rau ringa e oti ai Many hands make light work

McLeod says that from the outside, the substation will look modern and fresh with landscaping designed to blend into the surrounding development.

The substation will be completed early next year.

Kaipara awards

Kaipara District Council is calling for nominations for its annual Citizen Awards and Environmental Awards. Nomination forms and criteria can be found on the council website at kaipara. govt.nz Nominations close on May 31.