Helicopters to work on power lines

Lines company Transpower New Zealand will be using low-flying helicopters for maintenance work on the power network this week.

Grid performance general manager David Brewer said technicians would use thermal imaging to identify "hotspots" on the national grid.

"Auckland residents should be aware that a helicopter will be flying - in some cases quite low - along the transmission lines in the area and there is no cause for alarm."

Information collected would help to ensure the integrity of the transmission line, Mr Brewer said.

"These types of programmes allow preventative measures to be undertaken to ensure that the grid can continue to operate effectively.

"We apologise for any disruption this work may cause and will endeavour to complete the work as quickly as possible," he said.

The work is due to take five days, depending on the weather.