PICTORIAL PARADE 169: WATER TO BURN

New Zealand’s largest power scheme, Manapouri, is being constructed entirely underground. Two tunnels are drilled, one from the Manapouri side, one from Doubtful Sound.

Men must work in tough conditions in this remote part of the country and are under the supervision of an American firm. The project should be completed by April 1968.
The ship Wanganella, moored in Deep Cove, is being used as a hostel for the men. All construction and transport machinery are maintained in a large repair shop at Doubtful Sound. Once completed New Zealand will benefit by the largest power scheme to date. Manapouri, the first electric power plant to operate entirely underground.