2018 - East Coast transmission line

On 7 August 2018 Horizon successfully acquired the East Coast Transmission line from Transpower at a cost of $5.5 million. For over 15 years Horizon had negotiated with Transpower to have the line under its control, a move that was supported by the Ōpōtiki District Council.

The lines traverse some of the most rugged terrains on Horizon’s network and are prone to high winds with access issues during severe weather events, meaning repairs could be delayed.

Horizon had committed to improving the quality of supply to the customers and a 1MVA generator was located at Te Kaha that would provide backup supply in the event of a fault, regular line patrols were implemented, and all access ways and tracks leading to various pole sites were cleared and standard designs were completed for all high-risk poles.