Story: South Canterbury places

Waitaki hydroelectricity system

Waitaki hydroelectricity system

The construction of the Waitaki hydroelectricity scheme meant new storage lakes and feeder canals were needed. In the background is Lake Ōhau, which feeds the Ōhau Canal (right). This flows into the turquoise Pūkaki Canal and the artificially created Lake Ruataniwha. Also draining into the lake is the meandering Ōhau River. The water passes through the three Ōhau power stations before entering stations at Lakes Benmore, Aviemore and Waitaki. It finally discharges into the Waitaki River.

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GNS Science
Reference: CN3527/2
Photograph by Lloyd Homer

Permission of GNS Science must be obtained before any use of this image.

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How to cite this page:

John Wilson, 'South Canterbury places - Mackenzie Country', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/11446/waitaki-hydroelectricity-system (accessed 29 March 2024)

Story by John Wilson, updated 17 Aug 2015