ChargeNet to expand network to regional NZ

By 2026, ChargeNet will have 600 fast DC charging points. Photo: ChargeNet

ChargeNet is to build eight new regional charging sites across Aotearoa New Zealand, as part of its commitment to double its network in the next three years.

The new ChargeNet sites are a mix of 75kW and 150kW chargers with spots for four vehicles at each site. They will be built in Tairua, Waihi, Paeroa, and Whakatane, plus the southern Wairarapa region. In the South Island, chargers will be in Blenheim, Motueka, and Cromwell.

The eight new sites will add an additional 32 charging points across 16 charging stations, and are expected to be completed in early- to mid-2024. 

Alongside the 32 charging points, ChargeNet is also announcing the construction of one of New Zealand’s fastest and largest EV  charging hubs, set to be installed at Tauriko, Tauranga.  

The new charging hub will be able to charge up to 10 vehicles at one time. Stage one of the  charging hub will see the installation of five 150kW chargers, which can simultaneously add  300km of range within 20 minutes – enough to power most EV journeys to Auckland, or to  Hamilton and back. 

The company plans to provide New Zealanders with more than 600 fast DC charging points by 2026. 

ChargeNet CEO, Danusia Wypych, says the company has reinforced its commitment to supporting New Zealand’s transition to electric vehicles, by building climate-positive EV-charging infrastructure that complements its existing network, based on data insights that show where chargers are most needed. 

“If we want more people to buy EVs, the charging stations need to be there for them. We want to open up the availability of chargers where every day EV drivers need them most, based on demand,” she said.

All sites will be powered by 100% renewable, climate-positive certified electricity that is sourced from wind, hydro, and solar, through ChargeNet’s energy partner Ecotricity. 

The sites are jointly funded by ChargeNet and EECA, with funding from Rounds 6 and 9 of the Government’s Low Emission Transport Fund (LETF), which is administered by EECA.