First phase underway for upgrading electricity supply in and around Whitianga

The first stage of Powerco’s planned upgrade to the electricity supply in north-eastern Coromandel Peninsula will begin with a Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) survey on Thursday 9 October. The GPR survey will take place at the Ferry Landing Carpark on Purangi Road, Whitianga, and is expected to be completed within a day.

The survey is an important milestone in Powerco’s planned installation of a new 11kV marine electricity cable beneath the Whitianga Harbour, from Purangi Road in Cooks Beach to The Esplanade in Whitianga. This new cable will provide a stronger, more resilient power supply for communities including Whitianga, Cooks Beach, Hahei, Hot Water Beach, and Whenuakite.

Powerco General Manager Electricity Karen Frew says the survey will help ensure the project can be delivered in a way that protects the area’s unique cultural, historical and environmental values.

“The GPR survey of the carpark will map what’s beneath the surface so we can carefully plan the cable’s route through that area and avoid sensitive sites. It’s the first step in a project that will help future proof the supply for thousands of people across Coromandel Peninsula,” says Karen Frew.

The new marine cable will improve the reliability of supply, and ensure the network can keep up with the growing electricity needs of the region.

Powerco are currently preparing the required consenting approvals, and the new cable is expected to be installed in winter 2026 to minimise disruption during busy summer and holiday periods. Powerco will use directional drilling, a low impact method that avoids disturbing the harbour floor, and is currently engaging with mana whenua, local councils, and Heritage New Zealand Pouhere Taonga as part of the planning process.