Northland wind second rate

Kaipara's breezes could produce up to 600 megawatts of electricity annually if current tests bear fruit.

Last week, wind investigation manager Graeme Mills told the Kaipara District Council that Manawatu and Wellington are considered the country's best wind areas, but Northland is among several second tier sites.

He warns that with gas reserves running out and electricity needs growing by 150mW each year, New Zealand is 'nearing an energy cliff'.

At present, wind contributes two percent of electricity but has potential for 20 percent.

"It is the largest realistic short-term growth option," Mr Mills says.

Hydro options are limited, and geothermal has the potential to double its five percent contribution but was not an option for Meridian.

Despite existing proposals for tidal generation in the Kaipara harbour, Mr Mills rejected this option in the short-term.

"I don't believe tidal or wave generation will be realistic for another 10 years."

Mr Mills says at least a full year's monitoring is needed to produce conclusive wind results.

"But we wouldn't be going to all this trouble if we didn't think there was potential."

If Meridian chooses Kaipara, the community will benefit during five to seven years of construction and up to 30 jobs to operate the field.

Crest Energy earlier this year announced plans for 200 under-sea turbines between Kaipara's North Head and Pouto Point.