Power network should remain under Kiwi control

Dr Cullen’s comments on the sale of Wellington’s line network, reveals an urgent need to amend the Overseas Investment Act and develop a list of key strategic assets that should remain in New Zealand control, Green Party MP Sue Kedgley says.

A claim by Dr Cullen that Vector’s electricity network is not a strategic asset because it is not on sensitive land is completely spurious.

“Dr Cullen is now trying to weasel out of the requirements that he found very politically convenient when declining the sale of Auckland airport to overseas investors

“There are many strategic assets, like energy distribution networks, that aren’t associated with a lump of land.”

Ms Kedgley points out that the distribution of energy is an essential part of our infrastructure and our economy: “The lines that carry our energy to us are a monopoly, and as such should remain in New Zealand control."

The Green Party has been calling for an amendment to the Overseas Development Act which would identify key strategic assets that should remain in New Zealand control, and would continue to do so, Ms Kedgley says.