The facility would use 280MW of power, making it the second-largest electricity user behind Tiwai Point aluminum smelter near Bluff. He said a cable coming onshore at Ōreti Beach meant the city would have the fastest internet in the country, which could attract tech companies. Trenching along the beach could impact cultural and spiritual values, lead to the discovery of cultural artefacts, and disturb toheroa, he wrote. "I note that Te Ao Marama Inc's Cultural Impact Assessment identifies that the cable impacts on Mauri, Mahinga Kai, Kaitiakitanga and Rangatiratanga values, both in the open coast and Ōreti Beach areas." The cable had an expected life span of 25 years, but the applicant had sought a 35-year consent.

Source: Otago Daily Times March 13, 2026 08:59 UTC