The Nordex Group has entered the New Zealand wind energy market after securing its first order in the country from Mercury, one of New Zealand’s major electricity generation and retail companies. The order covers the supply of 40 N133/4.8 wind turbines with a combined installed capacity of 192 MW for the Puke Kapo Hau wind farm in the Otago region of New Zealand’s South Island. The companies have also signed a comprehensive service agreement covering 30 years.
The project marks an important milestone for Nordex as it expands its presence in the Asia-Pacific renewable energy market. The company plans to use its experience in wind turbine technology and project execution to establish operations in New Zealand, working alongside local businesses and contractors.
The Puke Kapo Hau wind farm is located in the eastern foothills of the Lammermoor Range in Otago. The site benefits from average wind speeds exceeding 8 metres per second, providing favourable conditions for wind power generation. The project will use Nordex’s N133/4.8 turbines, installed on 90-metre tubular steel towers.
Installation of the first turbine is scheduled to begin in early 2028, while commissioning of the first unit is planned for mid-2028. The project is expected to contribute additional renewable electricity generation capacity to New Zealand’s power system.
Mercury Chief Executive Officer Stew Hamilton said the company was pleased to partner with Nordex for its first wind farm development in New Zealand. He highlighted Mercury’s experience in delivering renewable energy infrastructure, noting that the company had delivered five of the six wind farms constructed in New Zealand over the previous five years.
According to Hamilton, the Puke Kapo Hau project represents the next phase of Mercury’s wind energy development. He also noted Nordex’s established presence in Australia and welcomed the company’s entry into the New Zealand market as a new wind technology supplier.
Alberto Perez, Managing Director Australia at the Nordex Group, said the order represented an important step in the company’s expansion strategy. He highlighted New Zealand’s strong wind resources and renewable energy opportunities, adding that the company was pleased to have Mercury’s confidence in its technology and project execution capabilities.
The 30-year service agreement will support the wind farm throughout its operational lifecycle, providing a long-term framework for maintenance and technical support. The partnership combines turbine supply with extended service arrangements to support the project’s ongoing performance.
Nordex also plans to collaborate with local companies as it prepares for construction and subsequent operations. Its current plans include engaging local contractors for crane services, turbine installation and final run activities. This approach is intended to combine Nordex’s international experience with local expertise while building its operational capabilities in New Zealand.
For Mercury, the project advances its renewable energy development pipeline, while Nordex gains an entry point into a new market. The 192 MW order and long-term service agreement establish a foundation for further cooperation between the companies as New Zealand continues to develop its wind energy resources.
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