- Datagrid plans to build a $3.5bn AI datacentre in Makarewa, New Zealand, operational by 2028, raising local concerns over transparency.
- The centre will use 280MW of electricity, making it NZ's second-largest user, and require significant water and land, with potential noise and light pollution.
- Local residents and advocacy groups express worries about environmental impacts, lack of community consultation, and limited long-term economic benefits despite job claims.
- Government agencies promote the project for foreign investment, citing renewable energy and cool climate, but critics highlight opacity and global datacentre issues.
- Concerns include water usage, diesel generators for backup power, and community exclusion from decision-making, with growing anti-datacentre sentiment in the region.