Remote Horeke community gets power upgrade
Published: 17 December, 2025
The remote community of Horeke in Northland will have its electricity supply upgraded with the help of a $1.6 million grant from the Regional Infrastructure Fund (RIF).
A new solar project will bring energy security to the small, predominantly Māori community of Horeke, supplying power to around 100 existing households, five new homes, five marae, and one school.
Until now, the Horeke community has frequently experienced power outages and interruptions to their water supply due to unreliable electricity and has also had to rely on diesel and gas to meet their energy needs.
Securing a reliable electricity supply will allow the community to unlock opportunities in eco and cultural tourism in the Hokianga, create jobs and boost economic growth.
The RIF grant will go to Utakura 7 Incorporation, a Māori trust responsible for managing land in the Utakura Valley north of Ōkaihau which is also providing co-funding to the project. Construction of the solar-powered system will begin in the coming months, including necessary network upgrades.
The power infrastructure upgrade will support essential services, particularly during extreme weather events.
The project is an example of how the RIF is contributing to energy security where there are wider benefits for communities that cannot access investment from other sources.