Drone and helicopter inspections

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.

From 9 - 19 June we will also be carrying aerial drone surveys of power lines across the Whitford, Takanini, Clevedon and Papakura area.

Take a look at the map below showing the plan of when and where inspections will be taking place over the coming years.

Drone and Helicopter Inspection FAQS

Why are you using drones and helicopters for inspections?

We’re using drones and helicopters to carry out faster, safer, and more precise inspections, enabling us to identify risks early that helps ensure the reliability of our network. Extreme weather events, such as Cyclone Gabrielle, have highlighted the importance of proactive maintenance to minimise disruptions and maintain a reliable power supply.

What are the benefits of using aerial surveys?

Aerial surveys provide:

Enhanced reliability: Early identification of potential issues helps prevent power outages.

Improved efficiency: Covering larger areas in less time compared to traditional methods.

Safety: Reduces the need for crews to access challenging or hazardous locations.

Proactive maintenance: Ensures our network is well-prepared for future weather events.

Understanding of fire risk: Helicopter surveys help identify vegetation growing too close to powerlines, which could potentially cause power outages and pose a fire risk.

Network Compliance: The LiDAR survey identifies overhead lines that require maintenance to ensure compliance with regulations

Why are helicopters being used instead of drones in some cases?

Helicopters are ideal for surveying larger sections of the network quickly and collecting detailed data over a wide area. While drones are effective for close-range inspections, helicopters allow us to survey expansive areas efficiently.

How low will the drones/helicopters be flying?

Due to the different requirements of each inspection the drones and helicopter operate at different heights.

The Drones will operate in close proximity to the overhead lines and assets while the Helicopter will typically fly at a height of 1000ft to minimise impact to customers but at times it may be necessary for it to fly lower to capture the required data points

How does LiDAR technology work?

LiDAR uses lasers to scan the network, capturing millions of precise data points. These points are combined to create a 3D view of the surveyed area, including powerlines and surrounding vegetation. This allows us to assess conditions, ensure clearance requirements are met, and proactively address risks such as overgrown vegetation.

How will this affect my property and privacy?

Drone operators may need to access your property to operate drones safely. If this is necessary, we will contact you in advance to arrange access.

LiDAR captures millions of data points to create a 3D view of the surveyed area, which includes powerlines and vegetation but not detailed personal property data. When we take photos of our equipment, we focus on our assets (e.g., the top of our poles and crossarms) and some surrounding vegetation to inspect and maintain our assets.

Some examples of LiDAR data capture and photos that we are taking are below.

We handle, and instruct our contractors to handle, information securely and in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020. You can also view Vector’s privacy policy here.

Will my power supply be affected?

In most cases, your power supply will not be affected. The power will not be switched off during the surveys. However, if we identify something that poses a safety concern, a power outage may be required. In such urgent cases, we may not be able to notify customers in advance, though we will do our best to provide prior notice whenever possible.

Where and when will inspections occur?

Starting February 2025, we’ll begin carrying out drone inspections which will be conducted by our contractor Northpower, on our behalf, in the following regions:

Maraetai

Clevedon

Waiheke
Takanini.

We also have helicopter inspections scheduled to begin in February 2025 in Zone 3 as per the map below

We will keep this webpage updated with the latest schedules and locations.

What happens to the data collected during these inspections?

The LiDAR data collected is used to create a 3D map of the surveyed area.

This, along with the photos we will be taking of our equipment, helps us plan maintenance, ensure powerlines meet clearance standards, and identify vegetation risks. The data we collect is handled securely, for the primary purpose of inspecting and maintaining our assets, and in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020.

What should I do if I have concerns about the inspections?

Please contact us at 0508 VECTOR (0508 832 867) if you have any questions or concerns.

Will ground inspections still take place?

In some cases, yes. Drone inspections will replace many traditional ground-based inspections, but there will still be spotters and drone pilots on the ground.

How often will inspections occur?

The entire network will be inspected over a five-year period, with a fifth of the network reviewed each year.

How will I know when inspections are happening in my area?

We will share schedules and locations on this webpage and notify local communities through social media and other channels.

What happens if I have concerns about the inspections?

Please contact us at 0508 VECTOR (0508 832 867) if you have any questions or concerns about the work.

We appreciate your understanding as we carry out this essential work. These inspections are a critical part of maintaining a reliable and safe power supply for our community.