New Zealand fines boats near critical power cables spanning Cook Strait to prevent damage.

New Zealand's power grid operator, Transpower, has issued fines totaling thousands of dollars to boats fishing near critical power cables spanning the Cook Strait, which carry 15% of the country's electricity. Since 2006, around 21 fines have been issued, ranging from $1,000 to $20,000. The cables, laid in 1965, are protected by a 7km-wide zone patrolled 24/7. Maximum fines for fishing or anchoring in the zone are $100,000, and for damage, $250,000. The cables are due for replacement in 2032.

2 months ago
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