Story: Climate

Lake Tekapo, May 2003

Lake Tekapo, May 2003

Tekapo is a major storage lake for the Waitaki River hydroelectric power stations, which contribute greatly to New Zealand’s total electricity production. So when dry years on the West Coast and along the main divide reduce the flow into the lake, as in 2002–3, the effects on the New Zealand economy are severe. Power prices rise and there are restrictions on electricity use.

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How to cite this page:

Brett Mullan, Andrew Tait and Craig Thompson, 'Climate - Climate and life in New Zealand', Te Ara - the Encyclopedia of New Zealand, http://www.TeAra.govt.nz/en/photograph/7744/lake-tekapo-may-2003 (accessed 29 April 2024)

Story by Brett Mullan, Andrew Tait and Craig Thompson, published 12 Jun 2006