Making New Zealand - Power

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. 

New Zealand is blessed with remarkable natural resources for producing power: high mountains, fast flowing rivers, geothermal steam, and strong wind. Not to mention coal and natural gas. The task facing the power pioneers was harnessing these resources so the country could develop and grow.

– Narrator Mark Clare, at the start of this documentary

Key Cast & Crew

Brian Holland

Development

Brett Corlett

Concept, Camera Operator , Editor, Research

Mark Clare

Narrator

Jed Town

Composer

Mark Everton

Director, Producer

Steven Barnett

Concept