about 1 hour ago
Aoraki/Mt Cook across Lake Pūkaki.
A Meridian Energy proposal to temporarily take more water from Lake Pūkaki for hydro power has been given draft approval by a fast-track panel.
The controversial proposal will allow Meridian to draw down the lake level an extra five metres over a three-year period, without needing special approval from Transpower.
It was opposed by Transpower, Genesis and - at a late stage - Energy Minister Simeon Brown, who all argued it could create risks in a dry year if Meridian had already drawn down the additional water.
