$1.6b Wairarapa wind farm to go ahead

The $1.6 billion Castle Hill wind farm has been granted consent to be built in northern Wairarapa.

Independent commissioners announced on Monday the resource consent application lodged by Genesis Energy in 2011 had been approved, with some conditions.

Commissioners said the project would have economic and social benefits for the region and provide a source of renewable energy.

The consent conditions reduce the size and number of planned turbines, although the 286 turbines originally proposed could be built if affected landowners agree.

Masterton Mayor Garry Daniell said he appreciated some landowners would be disappointed by the decision, but said it would be a "huge boost for the rural economy".

More jobs would boost rural communities and businesses, and Wairarapa and Tararua would also be major contributors to the country's renewable energy sources, he said.

Genesis Energy public affairs manager Richard Gordon said the company was made aware of the decision late Monday night, and was reviewing it in detail before deciding on the next move.

Under the consent, Genesis Energy has 10 years to begin works, and a 10-year construction period.

The commissioners said this ensured works were appropriately staged, and would reduce risks associated with extensive earthworks.

Castle Hill Wind Farm Community Action Group chairman David Nelson said the group had not had a chance to read or discuss the report.

The group had asked commissioners to limit the impact on neighbouring properties, such as the effect of the turbines. The applicant and submitters have 15 working days to appeal the consent decision.