Rural Kai Iwi, New Zealand
Farmer Hans Brink was overseas when a devastating storm ravaged the lower North Island.
Hans’ wife Michelle was home alone when the power went out on their remote property. With a home and seven freezers to keep running, Michelle had to rely on a small generator borrowed from a neighbour to keep things ticking over.
It wasn’t the first time. In 33 years of farming the 700-hectare sheep, cattle and forestry property, 50km inland from Kai Iwi, the Brinks had experienced power cuts of up to two weeks on several occasions.
Like many farmers, the Brinks had relied on kilometres of power poles and lines crossing land prone to slips, floods and falling trees. This meant electricity supplies could be disrupted without warning – especially in bad weather.
“We don’t even think about power anymore. It’s excellent. Not having to worry about electricity has been liberating.”
But the Brinks’ electricity worries ended when their electricity distributor gave them the Base Power solution. Thanks to Base Power, the Brinks are now able to reliably operate their home and five-stand woolshed.
Not having to worry about electricity has been liberating.
“We don’t even think about power anymore. It’s excellent. We’re 100% happy.”