What are we doing?

Marlborough Lines Limited (MLL) will be replacing approx. 3.4km of aging conductor that is at end of life. Additionally, poles and cross arms will be replaced at the same time, as some of the poles are nearing 60 years old.  The majority of this work is adjacent to the highway, with only one road crossing. This is the continuation of works to upgrade the 33kV line from Seddon Substation to Ward Substation, with stages 1, 2 & 3 successfully completed in 2022, 2024 & 2023 respectively.

How will we do it?
Firstly, we have completed an assessment of the line and developed the design using our specialist design software. Local property owners have also been approached regarding access to land, and vegetation will be cleared in preparation for the work. Construction begins with pole preparation work on the ground before these are then lifted into position and new conductor is run to complete the project.

How will this affect you?
This stretch of line is solely HV conductor. To complete the work, there will be several power outages that are, unfortunately, unavoidable. As much prep work as possible has been planned to minimise the number of outages.

Outages are planned from 9am-6pm, however if things all go to plan, power will be restored earlier. These outages will occur Early March 2025 until Early April 2025. The affected customers will be notified regarding the dates they are affected from their electrical retailer.

Traffic impacts
With most poles located adjacent to the road corridor, and only one road crossing, we anticipate minimal traffic management. There will be precautionary Stop/Go (on standby, if required) whilst we are replacing the poles close to the road crossing (200m North of Taimate Road) for one day in early March and one day in Early April when we are running new conductor.

Property access and parking
There should be minimal property and parking access difficulties. Landowners who will be affected have already been contacted.

Where can you get more information?
Please contact Simon Litherland (Network Project Manager) at simon.litherland@mll.co.nz

Preparing for a power outage
If your water supply pump relies on power, please make sure you have spare, clean water to drink and wash with, as well as enough water to fill and flush your toilet. More tips for preparing for a power outage can be found here.