The partners have lodged consent applications for the take and use of water for, and discharge from, a hydro-generation facility. This is the first step in the development of the Amuri Integrated Water Project. The proposal reflects the needs expressed by the local community and councils through the consultative process run under the auspices of the Canterbury Water Management Strategy (CWMS).
“The partnership between Meridian and Ngāi Tahu Property demonstrates our strong desire to work closely on a project that provides lasting benefits to the region and its communities. We’re proud to be working with Ngāi Tahu Property as we share a genuine commitment to the sustainable and effective management of our natural resources,” said Tim Lusk, Meridian’s chief executive.
Meridian’s water infrastructure development manager, Nick Eldred, says the proposal will fulfill the vision, values and outcomes of the draft Hurunui-Waiau Regional Plan, which is part of the ongoing development of the CWMS.
Both organisations have been actively involved in Hurunui-Waiau Zone Committee community consultation, and have identified the Waiau River as having great potential for an integrated hydro-irrigation scheme in North Canterbury.
The proposed scheme will form the core of the integrated water management solution for the Hurunui District, enhancing the availability and security of electricity supply, whilst supporting regional development through irrigation, says Eldred.
Ngāi Tahu Property and Meridian have applied for water consents for the Amuri Hydro Project – a water take of up to 50m3/sec, and a discharge of up to 55m3/sec.
The design of the scheme and its exact footprint are yet to be determined, with Meridian carrying out some preliminary work to help determine the design in the coming months.
