Hauāuru mā raki - Waikato wind farm (2007 -
present)
Kessels & Associates has been involved in ecological surveys
on the wild Waikato west coast studying the potential ecological
effects of a large wind farm proposal for Contact Wind Ltd and
Contact Energy Ltd - Hauāuru mā raki Wind Farm.
Ecological impact assessments included large scale vegetation
mapping, wetland assessment, terrestrial fauna surveys (including
bats, birds, lizards and invertebrates), and aquatic biota
surveys. Kessels & Associates has conducted five large
scale, unique and innovative migratory shorebird surveys to
date. The surveys combined both up to 19 field observer
stations and three marine radars to track migration routes in the
area, producing detailed maps using GIS. This is most
certainly the largest survey of its type in New Zealand. The
data was then inputed into a refined collision risk model to
determine the level of risk for migratory birds passing over the
site. In consultation with design engineers, planners,
Department of Conservation and Council ecologists, a mitigation and
monitoring package was sucessfully developed to minimise effects on
all potential ecological effects including migratory birds, bats,
vegetation, aquatic biota and lizards.