Planes, Trains And Trucks Deliver Power Supplies

Thousands of kilometres of electricity lines and essential materials have arrived in the southern region to help restore power to parts of Southland and Otago. The deliveries are helping to replenish supplies that had run low following recent widespread outages.

PowerNet Chief Executive Paul Blue said the company’s supplier Corys had played a crucial role in getting the materials to them quickly, using a mix of transport methods including trucks, planes and trains.

“Cory’s, alongside our fantastic industry colleagues from Network Waitaki, Unison, Delta, Connetics, Central Power Installations, ElectroNet and Aurora Energy, have been amazing in providing materials, staff, and equipment to support our restoration efforts. Some material supplies had run low, and the latest shipments will keep our progress moving,” he said.

By midday Thursday 30 October, 2,820 customers in Southland and 1,550 in Otago were still without electricity.

“Our expanded team is doing an exceptional job in challenging conditions. While we’ve made some great progress in getting the lights back on (and the milking sheds running) for many, there is still a significant amount of work ahead which will continue into next week,” Mr Blue said.

To help streamline the process, PowerNet has introduced an online fault reporting form. Customers are being urged to use the digital form to report any issues, or to assist friends and family members who may not be able to do so themselves.

“This is the best way for customers to let us know their situation and to tell us more details of any damage.

“Thank you to the many people have reported their individual outages to us already. We have recorded as many of these as possible, and this form allows you to provide further information to us which helps streamline our restoration process.”

Those unable to access the online form can still call 0800 808 587, but PowerNet has warned that high call volumes may lead to delays. The company is asking the public to reserve phone calls for emergency situations only.

The form is available at: powernet.co.nz/outages/report-a-fault-or-power-problems

By the Numbers (as at 12pm, 30 October)
Please note these numbers will change as we undertake repairs and identify faults] on the network.

The Power Company Limited network (Southland):
Total Customers: 38,200
Customers without power: 2,200 (updated)

OtagoNet network (South Otago)
Total Customers: 15,700
Customers without power: 1,470 (updated)