The Environment Court consented following several months of discussion between Genesis Energy and local community groups.

The wind farm, which is north of Masterton and east of Eketahuna, will comprise up to 286 turbines of up to 860 megawatts in total.

“Working closely with the local community over the past year has delivered an outstanding result and having sustainable energy options of this scale is essential for the future of New Zealand’senergy generation,” said Genesis Energy’s chief executive Albert Brantley.

The development period includes a 10 year lapse period and a 10 year construction period.  The company has no immediate plans to start construction. “These consents are about being prepared for the future. They will provide Genesis Energy the ability to respond to the changing needs of New Zealanders, our customers, when we need to,” said Brantley.