March 13, 2026

#regional: Fast-Track Decision Nears for Controversial Waitaha Hydro Project

Matthew Tukaki Posted On March 13, 2026

A controversial proposal to build a hydroelectric scheme on the Waitaha River on the West Coast is approaching a critical decision, with environmental groups urging the fast-track expert panel to reject the project.

The proposed Waitaha Hydro scheme, backed by Westpower, would see a portion of the river diverted through a tunnel to generate electricity before returning the water to the river downstream. The development would include construction of a small weir, an underground tunnel about 1.5 kilometres long, a powerhouse, access roads and transmission infrastructure linking the scheme to the national grid.

If approved, the run-of-river project is expected to generate around 23 megawatts of electricity and produce enough power each year to supply about 12,000 households while helping strengthen electricity supply on the West Coast.

However, the proposal has drawn strong opposition from environmental advocates and political critics who say the project would damage one of the country’s remaining wild river valleys. Critics argue the development would undermine the natural character of the area and affect recreation and biodiversity values in the remote Waitaha Valley.

The project has a long and contentious history. Earlier versions of the hydro scheme were previously declined after concerns were raised about impacts on conservation land and the unique natural landscape of the river catchment.

Despite that history, the project has been included in the Government’s Fast-track Approvals process introduced in 2024 to accelerate infrastructure, energy and development projects considered important for economic growth and energy security.

The expert panel overseeing the fast-track application is now assessing the proposal and will determine whether it can proceed under the streamlined process.

The looming decision comes amid wider debate over the fast-track regime, which critics say risks weakening environmental protections, while supporters argue it is needed to unlock major infrastructure and renewable energy developments across the country.

If consent is granted, the Waitaha Hydro scheme would become one of the significant renewable energy developments to move ahead under the fast-track approvals framework.