The   proposed   project 

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Overview
Kaimai Wind Ltd is proposing to install up to 24 wind turbines on farmland at the northern end of the Kaimai Ranges.  
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The proposed turbines, which are of two different sizes, have a hub height of 110m and 130m . Each turbine has three rotors measuring 146m and 160m respectively. The total height, when measured from base to the tips, equates to 180m and 207m respectively.

​The site is privately owned and farmed by three separate landowners. The grid connection will be via the existing 110kV lines that pass over part of the landholding.

Positive outcomes envisaged for the community:
  • Increased security of electricity supply for the Waikato and BOP regions
  • Materials supply – notably concrete and aggregate
  • Construction and maintenance jobs
  • Increased rating base
  • Clean energy for up to 49,000 houses
  • Reduction of CO2 emissions in the Waikato Region
  • Contribution to NZ climate change obligations

Investigations   and 
Consultation

Kaimai Wind Ltd has been investigating the wind farm potential of the Northern Kaimai Ranges since 2005. The initial viability analysis involved installation of a 20m tall     monitoring mast along with access and grid connection investigations.

Once these initial investigations showed positive results, a bird, bat and wildlife investigation commenced in in 2007.  Investigations are ongoing, adding to a significant database which records bit, bat and wildlife activity in the area over consecutive years.  
 
A range of other specialist investigations have been carried out since 2005 including
 
Geotechnical – slope stability analysis by specialist engineers
Landscape and Visual – photo-montages and visibility analysis.
Background Noise – installation of sound meters and modelling of noise propagation.
Wind – monitoring with 50 and 60m tall masts

The Kaimai Ranges has special significance to Maori and we have worked closely with local Iwi to understand their concerns – consultation is ongoing. 

The proposed site is strategically placed to improve security of supply to the major demand centres of Tauranga, Hamilton and Auckland. Wind Energy is well suited to complement the hydro resource of the Waikato Region as it is possible to store energy (as water) behind dam walls. When the wind is light water can be released to fill the demand. 

The site was chosen after a regional investigation for the best sites. To be successful, a wind farm needs to have a strong, consistent wind resource and be close to the existing electricity network. The location needs to be easily accessed (for construction and maintenance), and has to be of sufficient size for economies of scale.

Kaimai Wind Ltd has engaged in wide consultation with the Paeroa community over the period of investigation. You can read about this, and other research and investigations in the Q&A.

​The application for a resource consent to construct the wind farm has been lodged with the Hauraki District and Waikato Regional Councils. After scrutiny the application was publicly declared, inviting submissions from the public. You can read more about the application (including the detailed analysis which has been conducted) at https://www.hauraki-dc.govt.nz/services/resource-consents/kaimai-wind-farm-project/.

A range of pre-hearing meetings were held during 2019  to give submitters the opportunity to express their views.  The hearing itself is expected to take place  in the first quarter of 2021 and will give submitters the opportunity to present their views verbally to independent commissioners who will be appointed by the Hauraki District and Waikato Regional Councils.

 
Please don’t hesitate to contact us (via the contact form on this website) if you have any questions or concerns.

















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Kaimai Wind Ltd
​Suite 19, 10/215 Rosedale Rd
M338 Private Bag 300987
Albany, Auckland

Mobile: Clare Bayly - 027 499 8862

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