Construction at the Omeheu Solar Farm is now in its final stages, marking a significant milestone for the project. Major construction activities have been completed, with only a small number of minor works expected to be finalised by the end of the month. Some rectification and maintenance activities will continue over the coming months as part of the project’s completion and handover process.
The Omeheu Solar Farm is now fully operational and generating renewable electricity for New Zealand’s grid.
We would like to sincerely thank our neighbours, local community and stakeholders for their patience, understanding and support throughout construction.
Project Progress
Over recent months, the project team has focused on completing the final stages of construction, including:
- Completion of the internal road network.
- Site-wide ground remediation and revegetation to support long-term environmental restoration.
- Rehabilitation and cleaning of the site’s internal drainage network.
- Electrical commissioning and testing to ensure the safe and reliable operation of the solar farm.
- Removal of the temporary site offices and laydown area at the Western Drain Road entrance.
Final Works
The remaining activities to be completed before construction is formally finalised include:
- Removal of the temporary site offices at the Putiki Road entrance.
- Rehabilitation of the Putiki Road laydown area.
- Chip sealing of the Putiki Road entrance to provide a durable finished surface.
- Handover of the site to Metlen’s Operations and Maintenance team, who will be responsible for the ongoing operation and maintenance of the solar farm.
Traffic Management – What to Expect
With construction nearing completion, traffic associated with the project will reduce significantly.
The site’s primary access is now via Putiki Road.
Project vehicles will continue to:
- Enter from State Highway 2.
- Access the site via the Putiki Road entrance.
- Turn left only when exiting the Putiki Road entrance.
These vehicle movements will continue to pass nearby properties, including Seedlings Preschool, until the remaining works are complete. We appreciate the community’s continued patience during this final phase.
Public Safety
The Omeheu Solar Farm is now energised and generating electricity.
For your safety, please do not enter the site.
Current hazards include:
- Live electrical infrastructure – there is a serious risk of electric shock or electrocution.
- Open drains and ongoing site works – unauthorised access may result in falls or other injuries.
If you notice damaged fencing, an unlocked gate, vandalism, or any other safety concern, please report it immediately by contacting the Site Supervisor – Electrical, Adam Anderson on 021646321.
After reporting the issue, please keep yourself and others, especially children, well away from the area until it has been made safe by authorised personnel.
Our Commitment to the Community
Although construction is drawing to a close, we remain committed to working closely with our neighbours and the wider community. Where appropriate, nearby residents and businesses will continue to receive advance notice of activities that may affect them during the final completion and transition period.
Contact Us
If you have any questions or would like further information about the Omeheu Solar Farm, please contact:
Julie Gardiner
Community Engagement
Phone: 021 021 90309
Email: julie.gardiner@metlen.com
Thank you once again for your patience, understanding and support as we complete the Omeheu Solar Farm.
