Partnering between a geography department and a community initiative to provide a wind resource assessment for the Blueskin Bay region, Otago, New Zealand

This paper explores the partnership between a community group and a geography department to assess the wind energy potential of the Blueskin Bay region in southern New Zealand. The partnership has provided opportunities for research and is of strategic importance. Year-long wind observations and numerical modelling have revealed that the hills surrounding Blueskin Bay show potential for wind energy generation. Despite challenges for both parties, the universitycommunity partnership has allowed a successful research platform to be established.