Manapōuri Power Station Receives New Transformer Boost

• Manapōuri Power Station's capacity to rise significantly with new transformer installation.
• The 104-tonne transformer completed a complex journey across Lake Manapōuri.
• Completion of transformer commissioning expected by Christmas, boosting winter power supply.

Meridian’s Manapōuri Power Station has successfully received a 104-tonne transformer, marking a major step in restoring the hydro station to its full generation potential. After being transported from Australia to Bluff, the transformer embarked on a 170-kilometre road journey to Supply Bay before a dramatic voyage across Lake Manapōuri by barge – a first for equipment of this scale. Previously, transformers this size had been brought via Deep Cove in Doubtful Sound and transported over Wilmot Pass.

The transformer’s arrival addresses the power station's recent limitations. For nearly two years, Manapōuri has operated below its full capacity following faults discovered in two of its seven transformers. Acting GM of Generation at Meridian, Yanosh Irani, shared the team’s commitment to the project, stating, “There were plenty of early starts and late finishes, but our Meridian team and suppliers have achieved an outstanding result for New Zealand’s electricity supply ahead of Winter ‘25.”

This delivery required meticulous coordination, with specialised teams handling different aspects of transport and logistics. Move Logistics managed the trailer transport from Bluff, Meisters handled the barge operations, and E-Type manufactured unloading wedges specifically designed for this delivery. Irani remarked on the efforts, “This has been months of work, planning, and coordination, and the specialist skills on display have been amazing.”

Once commissioned, the new transformer will increase Manapōuri’s generation capacity from the current restricted 640 MW to 768 MW, nearing the station’s maximum allowable output of 800 MW. With the anticipated completion of this commissioning work by Christmas, Meridian aims to bring the station back to near-full capacity, offering New Zealand’s electricity supply a timely reinforcement. “We saw this winter just how important every single megawatt is, so this transformer has landed at a brilliant time,” noted Irani.

In addition to the immediate boost in capacity, restoring Manapōuri’s output will ease the demand on the Waitaki generation scheme. This will allow Lake Pūkaki’s water levels to recover, providing more balanced energy storage and generation options. The arrival of the second replacement transformer, along with a spare, is expected by late 2025, further reinforcing Manapōuri's role as a critical asset in New Zealand’s renewable energy infrastructure.