Electricity link between islands down for repairs

The power supply from generators in the South Island to the North Island has been cut this morning as Transpower repairs a high voltage direct current link between the Islands.

The repairs to Pole 2 of the link, between Otorohanga Bay and Haywards in Wellington, would not impact on consumers, Transpower chief executive Patrick Strange said.

"Further, it can be fixed relatively quickly.

"However, it does create issues for generators in the South Island, unable to supply power to the North Island until Pole 2 is restored to service."

Transpower had removed Pole 2 of the link about 3am this morning after some of the joins in the line became overheated, which prevented the current flowing properly and put increasing heat and stress on the line.

The line was expected to be back in service later today.

- NZPA