With every new renewable energy project, comes an opportunity to improve the environment surrounding that project. It’s how Meridian is contributing to a better environment, while we play our part in building a better electricity system.
And now that construction is underway at the Te Rere Hau Wind Farm near Te Papa-i-Oea (Palmerston North), Meridian has been working closely with local iwi to bring our sustainability commitment to life.
Sustainability specialist Pete Ralph says one recent initiative was building a culvert that was functional, and that also aligned with Mātauranga (maintaining the mauri, respect of tupuna, holding karakia) and ecological principles. In other words, it needs to work for Te Taiao (the environment) as well as the wai (water).
“By integrating natural fibre spat rope into the culvert, we created a safe fish passage, that helps aquatic species on their natural migration,” says Pete.
To stabilise the surrounding land and prevent erosion hemp sandbags were used, while the hillsides were turfed to reduce runoff and lessen the impact into the natural filtration systems – wetlands.
“And the fact we did all of this using natural materials was a real sustainability win.”
A cornerstone of the project was early and genuine engagement with local iwi Rangitāne o Manawatū, Rangitāne o Tāmaki nui-ā-Rua and Ngāti Kahungunu ki Tāmaki nui-a-Rua.
“We recognised the deep connection iwi have to the whenua and the importance of Te Mātāpuna (headwaters). Iwi were involved from the beginning and, to a large extent, led these stream works. Their traditional ecological knowledge, combined with modern engineering, helped shape an outcome that honours both innovation and kaitiakitanga (guardianship).”
During construction, the team discovered two tuna (eel) and several kōura (freshwater crayfish) in the works area, while a further 13 kōura were found and relocated from another nearby gully area. The specimens were all safety relocated. Fish screens were installed prior to the works starting to protect them from re-entering the construction zone, to help preserve this special local ecosystem.
This project is one of many ways Meridian is putting sustainability into action—through collaboration, innovation, and a deep, lasting respect for Tangata whenua and Te Taiao (the environment).
