KCE

13/05/2026

URGENT NOTICE - PERIODIC RELEASES OF WATER DOWN THE RIVER AT KURATAU DAM

Contact Energy will be carrying out essential maintenance on the spillway gates at Kuratau Dam on Monday and Tuesday, the 18th & 19th May. During this time, there will be periodic releases of water down the river - up to five times the usual flow. If you’re planning any recreational activities on the Kuratau River, either upstream or downstream of the spillway, please take extra care and keep this in mind.

To help facilitate the maintenance work, the entrance gates to the station will be locked from Friday, the 15th May, and will reopen on the afternoon of Tuesday, the 19th May.

We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as these important works are completed. Stay safe and thank you for your help in keeping our river community informed.

22/03/2026

Meet William –KCE Wairere Next Generation Scholarship Recipient

For William Darke, the Mōkauiti Stream isn’t just part of the landscape, it runs alongside his family’s dairy farm in Aria and has shaped generations before him.

Now studying a Bachelor of Agriculture at Lincoln University, William hopes to return home after completing his degree and become the fourth generation to run the family property.

Already involved in farm management, he is passionate about strengthening both productivity and environmental practices, particularly around freshwater protection, soil health and sustainable land use.

“My goal is to return home as the fourth generation on our family farm and strengthen both productivity and environmental management. This scholarship recognises my connection to the Mōkau catchment and motivates me to build a positive future for farming and the environment.”

We’re proud to support William as he works toward a future where agriculture and the environment thrive together.

Congratulations, William

15/03/2026

Meet Reanna – KCE Wairere Next Generation Scholarship Recipient

Growing up in Piopio, the Mōkau River has always been part of Reanna Haine’s story.

From swimming and fishing with her whānau to learning about the history of the Wairere Dam - where her grandfather once worked - her connection to the river runs deep.

Reanna is currently studying a Bachelor of Business at the University of Waikato, majoring in Professional Accounting and minoring in Agribusiness. Her goal is to become a Chartered Accountant specialising in agricultural accounting, supporting rural businesses and farming families across the region.

“Receiving this scholarship feels like a real vote of confidence in my dedication and future plans. It motivates me even more to give back to the rural communities that have shaped me.”

We’re proud to support Reanna as she works toward a future that strengthens the communities of the Mōkau catchment.

Congratulations, Reanna

09/03/2026

We’re proud to announce Reanna Haine and William Darke as the recipients of the KCE Wairere Next Generation Scholarship.

Created to mark 100 years of generation at the Wairere Power Station, the one-time scholarship recognised young people with strong connections to the Mōkau River and Mōkauiti Stream who are committed to shaping the future of our rural communities.

Both Reanna and William have deep generational ties to the catchment and big plans to give back.

From agricultural accounting to sustainable farming, their ambitions reflect the values that have underpinned Wairere for a century: stewardship, community and responsibility.

For 100 years, the awa has powered our region. Supporting the next generation is one way we can give back.

Congratulations Reanna and William 👏

11/02/2026

Applications for The Wairere Power Station Next Generation Scholarship have now closed.

Our team is currently reviewing and you will be notified by the end of the month.

02/02/2026

We are incredibly proud of our 10-year partnership with the Waikato Rescue Helicopter 🚁

The work they do for our communities is nothing short of outstanding, and we are honoured to support a service that quite literally saves lives when it matters most.

A huge thank you to the entire Waikato Rescue Helicopter team for the dedication, professionalism and care you show our region every single day ❤️

19/01/2026

REMINDER!
The Wairere Power Station Next Generation Scholarship closes 6th of February 2026.
Learn more and apply at www.kce.co.nz/wairere-scholarship

 The one-off scholarship, to be awarded in the 2026 calendar year, coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Wairere Power Station, a hydroelectric scheme located near Piopio in the Waitomo District.

21/12/2025

Meri Kirihimete from King Country Energy!

As we celebrate the festive season with whānau and friends, many of us will be out enjoying New Zealand’s great outdoors.

If you're spending time near the water, remember to stay safe around our hydro power stations:
⚡ Mangahao (Shannon)
⚡ Kuratau (Lake Taupō)
⚡ Wairere (near Piopio)
⚡ Mokauiti
⚡ Piriaka (near Taumarunui)

Water levels can change suddenly! Always check safety signage, be aware of hazards, and keep a close eye on tamariki and pets near rivers and lakes.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas and a safe, summer ahead!

18/12/2025

🎓 Wairere Next Generation Scholarship – now open

To celebrate 100 years of the Wairere Power Station, King Country Energy is proud to offer the Wairere Next Generation Scholarship – two grants of up to $5,000 supporting young people connected to the Mōkau River and Mōkauiti Stream.

The scholarship is designed to help local rangatahi take their next step into tertiary study, trade training or apprenticeships, honouring the strong bond between the power station, the river and the community it has served for generations.

Applications close 6 February 2026.

👉 Find out more and apply at www.kce.co.nz/wairere-scholarship/

 The one-off scholarship, to be awarded in the 2026 calendar year, coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Wairere Power Station, a hydroelectric scheme located near Piopio in the Waitomo District.

16/12/2025

16/10/2025

Record-breaking weekend at Lake Kuratau 🎣

Lake Kuratau was buzzing over the weekend as it hosted the 2025 Manic Pairs competition — with a record number of competitors taking part and an impressive 1,405 fish caught and released, the highest ever for this event!

Fantastic to see such a strong turnout and the lake providing excellent fishing conditions for everyone involved.

📸 Photos: Competitors enjoying a great weekend on Lake Kuratau