A massive AI data centre proposed for Southland has received resource consent despite concerns the project could damage marine life and Māori cultural values, setting up a clash between economic development and environmental protection.
The 78,000 square metre facility in Makarewa, approximately 15 minutes north of Invercargill, would consume 280MW of power—making it New Zealand's second-largest electricity user after the Tiwai Point aluminium smelter, 1News reports.
Developer Datagrid, founded by Remi Glasso, secured full resource consent for the project, which includes a subsea cable landing at Ōreti Beach. The company projects construction will generate over 1,200 skilled and technical jobs.
Invercargill Mayor Tom Campbell enthusiastically backs the project, arguing the subsea cable would give the city "the fastest internet in the country," potentially attracting tech companies and creating "a few hundred jobs based in high tech industries." Southland Mayor Rob Scott also supports it, noting the company has addressed community feedback regarding rainwater collection.
But Environment Southland commissioner Hugh Leersnyder's report identified significant environmental and cultural risks. The undersea cable placement could "disturb marine mammals" and cause behavioral changes through underwater noise. Trenching at Ōreti Beach may damage Māori values including "Mauri, Mahinga Kai, Kaitiakitanga and Rangatiratanga."
