Tairāwhiti Solar Support for Fourteen Marae
The East Coast carries a strength that comes from its people and its whenua. After Cyclone Gabrielle, many of these places were isolated for weeks, with power and communication lines down and access roads washed out.
Beyond Cyclone Gabrielle
Tairāwhiti Trust reached out to Solar Options with a clear kaupapa: Provide Solar Support for 14 Tairāwhiti Marae after Cyclone Gabrielle. Creating a network of marae that could stand strong during future disasters.
We approached each site with respect and patience, knowing these weren’t just buildings but important community anchors. The landscape, coastal winds, salt air, and long stretches between townships, all shaped every design decision.
A Solar Options Case Study
This region is home to Ngāti Porou, Rongowhakaata, Ngāi Tāmanuhiri, and Te Aitanga-a-Māhaki – iwi with strong heritage, stunningly intricate meeting houses, vibrant painted churches, and the daily embrace of Te Reo Māori.
Why This Project Matters
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These installations were about far more than solar. They created a connected network of safe, reliable energy hubs ensuring people and emergency services can rely on lighting, communication, refrigeration, when the grid fails.
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For many marae, the systems also reduced ongoing power costs, shifting budgets back into community use instead of energy bills.
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What began as a response to Cyclone Gabrielle has become a long-term example of how technology and community can work together to protect and strengthen the East Coast.
Key Benefits for the East Coast
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Resilient power option during natural disasters.
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Lower long-term energy costs for each marae.
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Reliable, monitored battery storage built for coastal environments.
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Independent operation when grid power is lost
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Support for communication, lighting, and essential services.
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Strengthened regional emergency planning.
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A network of fourteen connected community hubs.
Building Solar Resilience
Across the fourteen marae, each had its own rhythm. Some host large gatherings, others support small rural communities, and all become central refuges in times of need.
After Gabrielle, many whānau highlighted the same challenges:
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Weeks without power.
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Limited access to communication.
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Blocked roads and isolated valleys.
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The need for steady, independent energy during emergencies.
Recovering from Disaster is a Sacred Journey
Across the fourteen marae, each had its own rhythm, its own role in the wider hapori. Some host large communities, others support small rural communities, and all become central refuges in times of need. After Cyclone Gabrielle, many whānau highlighted the same challenges:
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Weeks without power
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Limited access to communication
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Blocked roads and isolated valleys
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The need for steady, independent energy during emergencies
Our team listened first. No assumptions. No pressure. Just steady guidance from people who live off-grid ourselves and understand what reliable power truly means. It was a privilege and an honour to be part of this project, an experience that taught us a great deal along the way.
Beyond Emergency Readiness
Because each marae was different, a one-size-fits-all approach was never an option. After site assessments and kōrero with local leaders, we designed a regional solution that balanced resilience, practicality, and long-term care.
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Two marae received fully off-grid double-cabinet SolarPac systems.
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Twelve marae received hybrid systems paired with SolarPac battery cabinets.
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All systems included Wi-Fi monitoring, temperature-controlled housing, and hardware built for harsh coastal conditions.
This project was a partnership at every step. Trust Tairāwhiti coordinated local leadership and funding, while our team handled design, compliance, and installation to meet NZ electrical standards and each marae’s specific needs.
Your Solar Questions Answered
We understand that transitioning to solar energy raises many questions. Below are a few questions we’ve answered other communities looking building a Disaster Recovery Plan (DRP) in coastal areas of New Zealand, like East Coast NZ.
Why did these marae choose off-grid and hybrid systems?
Distance, weather exposure, and the need for reliable emergency power made independent systems a practical choice for the region.
How did you design for the East Coast environment?
We accounted for salt air, wind exposure, humidity, and isolation. Our team has decades of experience living off-grid ourselves, which guides our approach.
How long will these off-grid and hybrid systems last?
With good design and regular care, the systems provide long-term, steady performance.
Ongoing support is a core part of what we do, we’re always here when needed.
Gerry & Tarquin Magner
Gerry and Tarquin are the driving forces behind Solar Options NZ Ltd, bringing their passion for solar energy to every project. With a deep commitment to empowering families and communities, they strive to make solar energy accessible and beneficial for all. Their philosophy is rooted in trust, transparency, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact on the environment and society.
