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Making New Zealand - Power

2014 Television
  • Documentary
  • Educational
  • NZ History

Making New Zealand explores the engineering and technology feats that have shaped Aotearoa. In this 'Power' episode, the history of electricity is explored via a combination of interviews and archival footage. Hydroelectricity is a major focus, including the construction (and political complications) of Benmore Dam, Clyde Dam and the Manapōuri Power Station. New Zealand's relationship with geothermal, wind and nuclear power is also discussed. As is typical of the series, this episode includes eye-opening footage of perilous construction work, in an era that was clearly light on health and safety regulations.