It will be similar to work completed in previous years, where retaining walls have been installed immediately downstream of the Control Gates

Mercury’s Acting Executive GM Generation, Tomas Toomata, said regular maintenance checks show the Control Gates structure is still safe for use, but work needs to be done to protect it from erosion.

“The Control Gates is an important part of the Waikato Hydro System which supplies about 10% of the country’s renewable energy supply.

“It’s been well maintained over the years, but we have to make sure it continues to operate safely and efficiently in the years ahead.”

The upstream erosion control work starts in late February 2025 through to June 2025.

It follows phase 1 of the project which involved repairing erosion downstream of the gates, work that was completed in December 2024.

“We are now looking forward to getting phase 2 underway. We’ve deliberately programmed it to start after the busy summer season and after Waitangi Day celebrations.”

People will see specialist equipment moving into place from late February. This will include a 100-tonne crane which will work on both sides of the river during the project, to lift the sheets into place.

Mercury is working with iwi partners, Taupō District Council and other stakeholders to ensure the community is aware of the work.

Mr Toomata said there were no safety or operational risks to the road or the bridge over the Control Gates.

“And we will continue to manage water flows through the Control Gates as normal.”

For more information visit the project webpage.