Huntly-Stratford transmission line: Mt Pirongia area

Abstract

The events of line route determination and compensation in the contentious Mt. Pirongia region of the Huntly-Stratford 220kV transmission line has prompted me to carry out this project in the hope that it will contribute to and initiate action so that this unfortunate and unnecessary episode never occurs again. Residing within this area in question, I have witnessed the attitudes and approaches by E.D. staff, the unity and resolve of communities to obtain unbiased evaluations, the pressure placed on individuals, families and districts by E.D.'s actions, the further resolve of landowners to refuse admittance to E.D. until they agreed to more realistic levels of compensation, and the protracted compensation settlements. In all, a protracted, costly and character testing episode.