Cook Strait tides to power NZ 

Developers of a scheme to harness energy created by the tides in Cook Strait say the site is the best in the southern hemisphere. 

Scientist David Beach and engineer Chris Bathurst - both from Christchurch - plan to anchor up to 7,000 turbines to the sea floor and float them about 40 metres below the surface. 

They say the turbines will thereby be protected from storms and earthquakes and could eventually produce enough electricity to power the entire country. 

Electricity generator Meridian Energy says whether it becomes involved in a scheme to harness power from Cook Strait tides depends on the costs involved.

Beach and Bathurst met with Meridian last week, looking at a partnership to ensure continuity of power when tidal power generation pauses at the turn of the tide. 

Bathurst says his company hopes to have the first turbine in place by 2008. 

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