26 February 2014
Media release

Transpower commissions North Auckland and Northland project

Transpower announced today that the latest addition to the National Grid – the North Auckland and Northland project - will be put into full commercial operation from 10am today.

Power will flow across Auckland via a new 220 kV cable running 37km from Pakuranga to Albany, supported by two new substations at Wairau Road and Hobson Street, and associated upgrade works.

Transpower’s Chief Executive Alison Andrew said that it is pleasing to see the $473 million project, which has been completed under budget, be commissioned and for the first time, there is an alternative route to move power through and around Auckland, providing greater reliability of power supply to the Auckland and Northland regions.

“This work has been essential for addressing Auckland's reliance on the single transmission line between Otahuhu and Henderson. In conjunction with previously completed projects like the Otahuhu Diversity upgrade project and the North Island Grid Upgrade project, Auckland, our largest commercial centre, now has a resilient and reliable supply of electricity.

“Completing the project was a large construction challenge and involved running three 220 kV cables 37km across Auckland in four distinct sections. Along the way, the team had to strengthen substantial bridges, including the Auckland Harbour Bridge, manage the excavation and installation of cables along major arterial roads and busways and undertake work in tunnels, over streams, under ponds and under the North Island’s main rail trunk line.”

“Projects of this size in urban areas require co-operation from many parties, and we worked closely with NZTA and Auckland Transport to create as little disruption to people as possible. I’d like to thank those parties that assisted us and also those people living and commuting close to our cable route for their patience while we built this important piece of New Zealand infrastructure,” she said.

ENDS

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