Makakahi

Wind Farm

Overview

323 GWh
Annual electricity generation

44,000 homes
Energy supply equivalent

86 MW
Power Generation

112 Turbines
Producing Electricity

Makakahi is a proposed 86-megawatt (MW) wind energy project located mid-way between Pahiatua and Eketāhuna, just 1 km east of SH2. By harnessing the strong west-northwest winds of the region, the project will generate clean, renewable electricity to support Aotearoa’s low-emissions future.

The project will be developed in partnership with iwi, local hapū, Māori landholders, and regional authorities. Guided by the values of kaitiakitanga (guardianship) and whanaungatanga (relationships), Makakahi will embed environmental and cultural considerations throughout its design, development, and operation. Engagement will also include the Tararua District Council and the Manawatū-Whanganui Regional Council to ensure enduring local benefits.

Makakahi is a proposed 86-megawatt (MW) wind farm located between Pahiatua and Eketāhuna, 1 km east of SH2.

The project will harness the excellent west-northwest wind resource of the Whanganui-Manawatū region to deliver clean, renewable electricity.

Strong wind resource: High frequency of west-northwest winds
Location: LUC 7 — non-arable, steep in places, suited to forestry
Environmental focus: Sediment and erosion control in a chronically threatened biodiversity area

Energy Impact:
• 12 turbines generating up to 323 GWh/year
• Enough to power more than 44,000 homes across Aotearoa
• Potential to support local developments such as the Te Utanganui freight and logistics hub

Makakahi is more than a wind farm — it’s a values-led partnership grounded in kaitiakitanga and renewable energy. Working alongside mana whenua, local communities, and project partners, the kaupapa will contribute to a sustainable and resilient energy future for Aotearoa.

Location

Project Lifecycle

  1. Concept

    Potential sites are mapped and studied, with early engagement to understand landowner interests and opportunities.

  2. Feasibility

    Detailed wind, solar, and environmental assessments confirm whether a site can support a commercially and technically viable project.

  3. Project Development

    Current stage

    Planning approvals, community and iwi engagement, and commercial agreements are advanced to prepare projects for financial close.

  4. Construction

    Turbines, solar panels, and infrastructure are built and connected to the grid, creating jobs and local economic activity.

  5. Operations

    Projects deliver clean electricity to the market while being actively monitored, maintained, and optimised for performance.

  6. Decommissioning

    At project end-of-life, assets are dismantled or repowered, and land is responsibly restored for future use.