A year of recovery and delivery for Centralines and Central Hawke's Bay

Centralines is pleased to announce the publication of its Annual Report, detailing a year marked by significant achievements in network recovery, community support, and sustainable growth. The reporting period commenced with Centralines completing critical repairs to its network following the devastation of Cyclone Gabrielle. This effort restored the network to a secure and reliable state. However, recognising that the community and many customers continued to feel the effects of the cyclone, Centralines has maintained its commitment to supporting ongoing rebuild and recovery efforts.

Centralines resumed its comprehensive works programme, including planned maintenance and capital projects prioritised through its Asset Management Plan. The dedication of the Centralines team and contractors led to the successful completion of the full programme, a record for the annual volume of work. This significant programme of work ensures a reliable network that meets the electricity needs of Central Hawke’s Bay power consumers and supports the district's ongoing growth amidst strong demand for customer connections. This was achieved despite the nationwide shortage of skilled workers in the electricity, infrastructure, and construction sectors, through Centralines’ commitment to the wellbeing of its team and contractors enabling it to maintain a capable workforce. 

Centralines Chair, Fenton Wilson, emphasised the company's unwavering support for the Central Hawke’s Bay community during its recovery and transition to a thriving future. "Our commitment to reliable electricity, local employment, and sustainable energy initiatives is stronger than ever," said Wilson. Despite a challenging macroeconomic environment, Centralines delivered robust financial results, with an after-tax operating profit of $2.7 million, marking a $600,000 increase from FY23. Capital expenditure reached $9.2 million, and consumer discounts amounted to $1.48 million. 

Centralines remains dedicated to supporting the Central Hawke’s Bay community by providing a reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity supply and contributing to the district’s growth and decarbonisation. The new depot strategically located adjacent to the Centralines Waipukurau zone substation features multi-purpose meeting and training spaces available for community use, free of charge for not-for-profit organisations. These spaces have been in high demand, regularly utilised by community groups, iwi, councils, industry associations, and businesses.

This year, Centralines pledged $184,324 in community funding to over 65 local organisations, including the Centralines Sports Park, Hawke’s Bay Rescue Helicopter Trust, Waipukurau Community Heated Pool and Sports Complex, and the Central Hawke’s Bay Technology Centre, enhancing the wellbeing of our rural community.

Centralines continues to invest in sustainability and innovation, with significant investments in renewable energy. Highlights include the installation of electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and solar panels on the new depot, producing 138,806kWh of energy annually. Wilson added, "We remain committed to delivering ongoing support through a reliable electricity supply, efficient and effective asset management, local employment, investment in the community, and the development of energy-related projects to help regional growth and sustainability."

At the heart of Centralines’ sustainable future are its people and the community. Centralines is dedicated to investing in the capability and wellbeing of its workforce and providing leading facilities to train the next generation for the industry. 

Focusing on growth and readiness for industry changes, including the electrification of transport and industry continues. Centralines has delivered a strong financial result and is poised to meet future demands while ensuring a sustainable and reliable electricity supply for Central Hawke’s Bay.

For full results, please see Centralines’ Annual Report on the website:
Annual Reports (centralines.co.nz)

For more information, please contact: [email protected]