Ruataniwha Water Storage Project 

Overview:

• The Ruataniwha Water Storage Project is New Zealand’s largest ever proposed water storage scheme involving a dam with a hydroelectric generator attached, and a primary distribution network that includes a 16km canal and some high-capacity pipe.
• The design standard at 95% reliability amounts to 104 million cubic metres of water, and the scheme is a long-term sustainable water supply solution for Central Hawke’s Bay and part of a wider programme to better manage water resources in the Tukituki Catchment.
• Following review, Hawke’s Bay Regional Council has put in place stronger conditions to reduce the environmental and financial risks of the water storage project.

Adam Majeed - Regional editor