It's important to keep well clear of all power lines and cables. Over half of the Wellington Electricity distribution network is located underground, but some of our electrical assets, poles and lines are overhead. Where there are overhead lines in the area, there may also be cables located underground as well.

There are some legal requirements and simple rules you can follow if you are planning on doing work around your house or anywhere else where you may come into contact with poles, power lines, underground cables or any other equipment on the network.

And remember, if you tangle an item in a power line, cut through an underground cable, or spot any downed or damaged power lines, please call us immediately on our emergency line – 0800 248 148 – to report the damage. Treat any lines or cables as live and keep all people well away from the area until we can send someone to make sure it is safe.

The we* all need to work safely around Wellington Electricity’s network booklet provides more information. If you intend to dig near power poles and/or underground cables, you can view more information by clicking the button below.

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