The Centenary of Electricity in Akaroa
On the 9th of September 2011 the power station was 100 years old. To celebrate this auspicious occasion, we have launched a book,
ALL OUR VOLTS, Electrifying Akaroa
Historian John Wilson was engaged to write “Our Story” which details the history of the Akaroa power station, the efforts of The Trust to return the equipment to Akaroa and restore it to working order. Angus Davis, one of the Trust members, provided invaluable assistance by sorting through past issues of The Akaroa Mail. He also sourced most of the numerous photographs contained in the book. Its one hundred and thirty six pages contain a fascinating account of the equipment, its travels, tribulations and finally its return and restoration to operation.
This beautifully presented, hard covered book highlights the foresight of the Akaroa Borough Council who, in 1911, purchased the generating equipment and so made Akaroa one of the earlier towns in NZ to be illuminated by electric light. There is also very interesting detail of the early years of the plant’s operation and the problems of juggling a connected load that was approximately four times the capacity of the generator!
After it was decommissioned at Akaroa, the plant was relocated to the resort hotel at Maruia Springs where it supplied electricity for nearly forty years before being returned to Akaroa.
As well as the book, we have produced a stylish tie/lapel pin (illustrated at right) which reflects the “Danger Live Wires” sign prominantly displayed on the cover of the book. This graphic was taken from a sign which was unearthed behind the power house building during restoration work.
The books are available at a cost of $40.00 and the pins are $15.00. If you would like to make a purchase, copies are available at the power house or by emailling the contact below.