Wānaka drivers now have more options for charging their electric vehicles (EVs), with two ChargeNet high-capacity chargers opening recently at New World Three Parks.

Each charger can service two vehicles at once, meaning four cars can charge simultaneously - a boost for the town’s growing EV network.

“It’s a convenient, everyday location that fits naturally with how people already move around Wānaka,” ChargeNet head of operations Kivash Sewnun said.

“Drivers can plug in, do their shopping, and come back to a vehicle that’s ready to go. It’s about making charging easy and part of everyday life.”

According to the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (EECA), by 2023 more than one in four (27.2 percent) cars purchased in New Zealand were either battery electric or plug-in hybrid - representing a ten-fold increase in just four years. 

Insights from Electric Vehicle Database (EVDB) indicate they increased to close to half of new vehicle sales by 2025.

Given the popularity of EV vehicles here, Wānaka is a “key location” for ChargeNet.

“It’s popular with both locals and visitors, so adding more charging options is part of keeping pace with demand,” Kivash said.

ChargeNet installed its first Wānaka charger on Ardmore Street in 2018, and chargers are supplied by other companies in locations including Sir Tim Wallis Drive, Studholme Road, Sargood Drive and more.

EECA data from October 2024 indicates there are over 1,200 public charging points in the country, or around one charging point for every 60 EVs.

“The new Three Parks site significantly increases capacity and reflects how EV charging needs in Wānaka continue to grow,” Kivash said. 

PHOTO: ChargeNet