Tutukaka sorts EV charger issue

This story first appeared in the january issue of evtalk CLICK HERE to download the magazine FREE

The mighty Northland has always been a committed champion and leader in the uptake of EVs and related network infrastructure in New Zealand.

Indeed, our nation’s first fast charging station was placed just around the corner from the Northland District Council headquarters back in 2015.

And so, as we’ve been singing from the same song-sheet for many years, it was a surprise to learn about a neighbourhood disagreement on the location of one of the public EV charging sites in the idyllic seaside village of Tutukaka.

It will be no surprise to EVtalk readers that convenient access to charging infrastructure is integral to the successful uptake of EVs.

It will also be no surprise that collaboration is critical if we are going to be successful in mainstreaming EVs in New Zealand.

As such, the response by the local EV community and our dear and trusted friends from the local lines company Northpower was to do the right thing and front foot a conversation between the community and other stakeholders.

They utilised a community-led process to collaboratively consider alternative options for charging solutions in this picture-perfect place.

I was impressed with how many people came on such short notice

It was also a pleasure to see such a lively debate respectfully held with so many new solutions and opportunities brought forward.

Even the local media seemed to marvel at the passion and knowledge in the room and the willingness to find a shared solution.

It’s a small but brilliant example of why the EV community is my chosen tribe.

This community meeting showed so clearly the true Northland spirit and commitment to their role in the rEVolution.

It also showed our community is hungry for knowledge and solutions.

I remain committed to empowering these communities to find appropriate solutions and where required help as always with providing a robust platform for any locally installed charging solutions.

To finish our afternoon there was a quick walk around some of the other potential charging locations.

I left for home with a strong sense that this is a community committed in action and to collaboration.