Innovative environment monitoring system at Deep Cove a first for Meridian's Manapouri Power Station

A new and innovative system of environmental monitoring is being implemented at Doubtful Sound, Fiordland, for the Manapouri power station.

Meridian Energy has contracted the Cawthron Institute (Nelson) to implement an adaptive management programme for environmental monitoring in Doubtful Sound.

"Manapouri operates in a National Park with World Heritage status," says Raewyn Moss, Meridian Energy Natural Resources Manager.

"This new system of monitoring will help ensure that Meridian continues to meet the extremely high standards necessary for operating in such a special area.

" The programme will be led by Dr Mark Gibbs of Cawthron, and will involve senior scientists and technical teams from NIWA (National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research) and the University of Otago. The work will focus on monitoring the marine environment in Doubtful Sound.

Meridian Energy operates Manapouri, New Zealand's largest hydro power station, at West Arm on the western shore of the lake. The station discharges water from Lake Manapouri through two 10km-long tailrace tunnels into Deep Cove at the head of Doubtful Sound.

"This type of project is an excellent example of New Zealand's premier science providers working together to support New Zealand industry and protect the environment," says Cawthron's Chief Executive, Graeme Robertson.

Meridian's Raewyn Moss says that the programme is a significant investment for the company, and follows a thorough scientific and operational review, working in consultation with scientists, regulatory agencies and interested stakeholders.

"We are delighted Meridian have been able to bring together the country's foremost environmental scientists to work together on this project. It's an excellent example of the top quality and innovative science that underpins Meridian's commitment to environmentally sustainable energy production," says Raewyn Moss.

The adaptive management system provides feedback on the effects as a result of the discharge of water into Doubtful Sound. It allows scientists to evaluate a complex, dynamic system, as well as providing a consultative process to address any effects detected as a result of the monitoring.

Media Release, 28 February 2005

For further information contact Mark Jarvis - Commercial Manager Tel 03 548 2319

Dr Mark Gibbs - Manager, Marine Resource Sustainability, Coastal Group. Tel 021 548 011

Alan Seay, Meridian Energy External Relations Advisor Ph (04) 381-1243 or (021) 494-475