Southland Wind Farm Approved: Green Light for Renewable Energy Project

Contact Energy has received fast-track approval to construct New Zealand’s largest wind farm in Eastern Southland, a project expected to generate up to 380MW of power and serve 150,000 households. The Slopedown wind farm, situated approximately 30km southeast of Gore, was approved by a panel on April 2, 2026, following an application lodged in August 2025.

The approval was announced jointly by Minister for Infrastructure Chris Bishop, Minister for Regional Development and Associate Minister for Energy Shane Jones and Minister for Energy Simon Watts. The project will involve the construction of 55 turbines across 58km² of privately owned land on Slopedown Hill.

Economic Impact and Job Creation

Minister Jones highlighted the significant economic benefits the wind farm will bring to the Southland region. The project is projected to inject $13.5 million into the local economy during the construction phase and create up to 300 jobs. Once operational, the wind farm will provide approximately 10 to 14 full-time equivalent positions.

According to Jones, the Slopedown wind farm’s true value lies in its potential to stimulate further investment and attract new industries to the region.

The Fast Track process is about cutting through unnecessary delays to unlock the projects that matter. It gives regions the certainty and momentum they need to create jobs and drive long-term economic growth.

Project Details and Timeline

The Southland Wind Farm project encompasses more than just the turbines themselves. It includes the construction and operation of up to 55 wind turbines, each with a capacity of approximately 7MW and a ‘tip height’ of up to 220 meters. The project will involve the installation of underground electrical cables, a wind farm substation at Jedburgh Station, a switching station, and a 220kV transmission line connecting to the Transpower National Grid.

Up to two permanent meteorological masts, each reaching approximately 140 meters in height, will also be constructed, alongside an operations and maintenance building and associated roading and turbine foundations. The application was deemed complete on September 18, 2025, after being lodged on April 2, 2025, and referred to the Fast-track process on July 31, 2025.

Renewable Energy Capacity

The Slopedown wind farm is expected to generate between 250 and 350 megawatts of electricity, capable of powering between 110,000 and 150,000 households. This makes it the largest wind farm in New Zealand, significantly contributing to the country’s renewable energy capacity.

The Fast Track panel granted approvals for the application on April 2, 2026, subject to certain conditions. The project represents a substantial investment in renewable energy infrastructure and is anticipated to play a key role in New Zealand’s transition to a more sustainable energy future.

Contact Energy’s successful navigation of the Fast Track approval process underscores the government’s commitment to expediting critical infrastructure projects. The company’s investment in the Southland region is expected to have a lasting positive impact on the local economy and employment opportunities.