|
| |
Lake Waitaki
Waitaki Dam
|
Waitaki Dam, the first to hold
the flow of the Waitaki and the first dam in New Zealand built without
diverting the natural river flow, was the last of the pick and shovel dams.
It was commenced in 1928 and, after delays due to massive flooding, began
generating power in 1934. |
|
This project, constructed during
the 1930's depression, spawned the trial scheme of the world's first social
security system. Kurow's Dr D G McMillan agreed to provide free medical
treatment to the men and their families if they paid a small weekly sum into
a common fund.
Later - when Dr McMillan and Kurow's Presbyterian Minister, Arnold
Nordmeyer, became Cabinet Ministers - they helped instigate a similar scheme
nationwide.
Today the Waitaki Dam generates 105 MW of power. Lake Waitaki is renowned
for its quality fishery and is a popular boating/camping destination in
summer.
Otematata was built in 1958 as a base for the construction of the Aviemore
and Benmore Dams. It is now primarily a holiday village with a hotel,
camping ground and basic services. |
| |
|
