Drone and helicopter inspections – Keeping our network safe
At Vector, we’re committed to ensuring the safety and reliability of our electricity network. Starting in February 2025, we will use drones and helicopters equipped with network inspection technology such as LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) to proactively inspect our network, along with taking photographs of our overhead network assets.
LiDAR provides detailed 3D mapping of power lines and vegetation, helping us identify risks with precision and plan maintenance efficiently.
Drones and helicopters will fly over our power lines and associated equipment such as poles to visually inspect them using high-resolution cameras. This will cover one-fifth of our network each year, over five years.
Inspections will be carried out by our contractors with Northpower starting February 2025 and Omexom starting July 2025.
Throughout July 2025 we will be carrying out drone surveying across the following areas: Swanson, Papatoetoe, Otara, Otahuhu, East Tamaki, Clendon, Wiri, Manurewa, Stanmore Bay, Whangaparāoa, Gulf Harbour and Silverdale.
Take a look at the map below showing the plan of when and where inspections will be taking place over the coming years.