Fourth renewable energy project Fast-tracked

This is the 23rd project to be approved under the Fast-track process and supports New Zealand’s renewable electricity generation infrastructure, Infrastructure Minister Chris Bishop and Regional Development Minister Shane Jones announced today.

Manawa Energy Limited lodged a substantive application in September 2025 for the re-consenting of the existing Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme.

Approval has taken five and a half months since the independent expert panel commenced.

“The Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme involves the continued operation of the existing hydro-electric generation scheme and associated water and generation infrastructure in the Kaimai Range,” Mr Bishop says.

“The scheme generates an average of 169 GWh of electricity per year, equivalent to the electricity needs of approximately 24,600 households, and contributes around 32 per cent of Tauranga’s electricity demand.”

The decision | Kaimai Hydro-Electric Power Scheme