Calls for panel to decline hydro proposal

Calls for panel to decline hydro proposal

The Morgan Gorge would be impacted significantly by the proposal, Federated Mountain Clubs say. Photo: Neil Silverwood By Anna Sargent of RNZ Outdoors and environmental groups are calling on a fast-track panel to decline a controversial West Coast hydro proposal.

Groups call on fast-track panel to decline controversial West Coast hydro proposal

Outdoors and environmental groups are calling on a fast-track panel to decline a controversial West Coast hydro proposal.

Fast-tracked hydro to boost West Coast resilience

A fast-tracked renewable energy project on the West Coast will strengthen regional electricity supply and improve resilience, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones say. In August 2025, Westpower Limited lodged a substantive application to build and operate a 23MW hydro scheme in the Waitaha Valley, about 38km south of Hokitika. The project includes a weir and a 1.5km tunnel to a two-turbine powerhouse…