Meridian Gains Consent To Create Energy Park Near Palmerston North

15 May 2026

Manawatū is set to host Meridian’s second battery energy storage system (BESS) and solar energy park. The company received consent to build a 120MW solar farm alongside an already consented BESS at Bunnythorpe, north of Palmerston North.

With around 250,000 solar panels, the Bunnythorpe Solar Farm will be capable of producing approximately 225GWh of electricity per year – enough to power around 30,000 average homes.

Bunnythorpe Energy Park will form part of a $3 billion investment Meridian is making through to 2030 to build new renewable energy capacity that’ll boost the country’s energy supply and help make electricity more affordable, says Guy Waipara, Meridian GM Development.

“We’re thrilled to receive this approval and have the opportunity to expand our presence in Manawatū. Meridian has been part of this amazing community for more than 20 years through our Te Apiti and Te Rere Hau wind farms. Solar energy is playing an increasingly important role in New Zealand’s electricity generation, and we’re excited to bring this to Manawatū.”

Bunnythorpe will be Meridian’s second energy park after the Ruakākā Energy Park near Whangārei. The Ruakākā BESS was completed in 2025 and a 130MW solar farm is currently under construction, with first power expected late 2026.

The project is expected to contribute to the vibrant and growing economy of Palmerston North and the Manawatū region. It is forecast to create in excess of 100 local construction jobs and up to $50m of local spend throughout construction.

The 280ha site is between Ashhurst and Stoney Creek Roads, and is adjacent to Transpower’s Bunnythorpe substation.

The project is subject to final investment decision by the Meridian Board, expected in Q4 2027. It will follow expected final investment decisions for Mt Munro Wind Farm in late 2026 and Te Rere Hau Wind Farm in early 2027.

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