Lake Benmore spilling caps hydro lakes’ extraordinary year

An earlier spilling event at Lake Benmore. (Image: Meridian)

Thu, 11 Dec 2025

Meridian Energy’s spillage from Lake Benmore is another sign of the extraordinary hydrological conditions being experienced in New Zealand.From Thursday, Meridian will begin controlled water release from Benmore Dam, with downstream spills at Aviemore and Waitaki to follow as required.The lakes and rivers within the Waitaki catchment are very high because of recent rainfall and snowmelt, and near their consented maximum levels. Meridian has been releasing water from Lake Pūkaki, at the head of the catchment, since Dec 3.People should take...

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