Nova Energy 06 May 2026

A golden day in Rangitāiki marks Te Rahui Solar Farm construction milestone

Nova Energy and Meridian Energy have marked the installation of the first ‘Golden Row’ of solar panels at Te Rahui Solar Farm – a visible milestone for the 400MW project that is on track to become New Zealand’s largest solar farm.

Located in the Rangitāiki area of Bay of Plenty, Te Rahui is a 50:50 joint venture between Nova Energy and Meridian Energy, representing a circa $660 million investment and reflecting what experienced energy operators can deliver together.  

Nova Energy Chief Executive Rob Foster said the milestone shows what shared progress looks like, turning investment into real infrastructure on the ground. 

“Every panel installed moves Te Rahui closer to delivering more renewable electricity for New Zealanders, while creating jobs and lasting benefits here in the region,” Mr Foster said. 

Te Rahui is being developed in two 200MW stages. Once both stages are complete, the project will deliver 400MW of renewable generation – enough electricity to power approximately 100,000 homes. Over 700,000 panels will be installed across roughly 800 hectares. 

The site in Rangitāiki was selected for its strong solar resource, suitable topography, proximity to existing grid infrastructure, and capacity to accommodate large-scale solar generation alongside environmental management initiatives. 

Beyond its scale, Te Rahui will strengthen New Zealand’s energy security by adding new domestic renewable generation. The project will support national emissions reduction goals and improve system resilience by diversifying the generation mix, with more solar complementing existing renewables. 

“We’re investing in new renewable energy generation to strengthen New Zealand’s security of supply and energy independence, and to help bring prices down over time for Kiwi homes and businesses,” said Chris More, Head of Renewable Construction at Meridian Energy. 

Te Rahui is focused on supporting regional employment during construction and enabling long-term land use compatible with renewable generation, including biodiversity restoration, wetland enhancement and cultural stewardship developed in partnership with iwi and hapū, backed by ongoing engagement and cultural monitoring. 

The Golden Row event brought together project partners, contractors, mana whenua and mana tangata to recognise shared progress and collective effort in delivering the project.