Incorporating feedback to finalise the design

On 28 June 2021 we visited Arapuni and Putāruru to talk with the community about the South Waikato National Grid Connection project.

We provided details about the project - such as the confirmed route, what poles will look like and next steps. We shared our pole placement map, which is in the process of being finalised as part of our detailed design. Click here to view the map.

We also listened to feedback from the people who live, work and enjoy the amenities along the route.

Some of the feedback concerned the impact overhead sections of the circuit will have for residents living along the route and users of the Pokaiwhenua Stream swimming hole and nearby Duxfield Reserve.

We’re now reviewing all feedback and, where possible, it will be incorporated into the final design to reduce visual impact.

I particular, we're currently assessing alternative overhead line routes for part of the connection - to see if the visual impact on the Pokaiwhenua Stream and Duxfield Reserve areas can be minimised. 

We aim to have the assessment completed early next year and we’ve engaged independent, external experts to provide input so we can be confident the options are considered thoroughly. 

To keep the overall project on track, we’re starting construction for the sections of the route that are confirmed, while we work to determine whether the line route can be adjusted.

The design will be finalised in August, following staking and walkovers of the final pole placement refinements (you can read more about staking and walkovers here).

In September, preparation work will begin, which includes undergrounding some of the existing overhead poles and wires along the circuit route.

Construction of the circuit is scheduled to begin at the start of 2022.

The best way to stay up-to-date on this project – including what our finalised design looks like is to sign up for project updates using our form here.