Datagrid begins construction on Southland’s mega data centre as locals voice concerns
Construction has started on New Zealand's largest data centre in Southland, though the company has reduced planned water and generator use following local opposition.
Datagrid has begun work on a 49-hectare site in Makarewa for what will be the country's largest data centre. The company has pledged to slash water use by 70 percent and more than halved backup generator requirements. However, locals have expressed scepticism about the scaled-back plans and vowed to continue opposing the $5 billion development.
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Coverage across the news outlets we track, as at publication.
What outlets are saying
RNZ
Datagrid begins work on Southland site, completion expected this year
The country's largest data centre will be located on a 49ha Makarewa site.
Otago Daily Times
‘Major milestone’ in construction of NZ’s largest data centre
NZ Herald
Datagrid begains ‘horizontal constuction’ in Southland, partnering with HEB
A major milestone has been reached for a controversial mega-build.
RNZ
Datagrid pledges less water, generator use at Southland AI factory
The company told business leaders it had slashed its planned water use by 70 percent and more than halved its backup generator requirements.
NZ Herald
Datagrid pledges less water, generator use at Southland AI factory
Southland locals have heard new details about Datagrid's scaled-back AI factory.
Otago Daily Times
‘Huge advantage here’: Datagrid pledges less water, generator use at Southland AI factory
Otago Daily Times
No tenant yet for Makarewa AI data centre
RNZ
Southlanders not buying Datagrid's promises of scaled-back AI factory
Locals vowed to continue fighting the $5 billion development at a fiery public meeting.