Open Day: Palmerston North Electric Power Station

Tall brick building with concrete pillars. Green barn door at bottom.

When the station was officially opened in 1924, Palmerston North was the last borough in New Zealand to get a public electricity supply. Previously businesses and some homes had operated gas-powered generators, utilising the town’s gasworks. For most of its operational life, the power station served as a substation for electricity generated from hydro power stations. Since last being in service in 1992, the station now only runs two British Polar diesel engines as a special treat on open days.

Engine starts are on the “hour”. Entry by donation.

  • Car parking may be limited or in a designated area – please follow the instructions of your host
  • Adults must accompany children under the age of 14 years
  • Please follow the health and safety procedures of your guide and host organisation

Image: "Keith Street Power Station", by Palmerston North City Library.

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