The historical hydro electric power station at Bullendale in Central Otago in New Zealand's south island is certainly the first use of electricity in gold mining in the southern hemisphere and quite possibly in the world. it supplied power to drive the stamper battery at the Phoenix mine, three kilometres away over a steep ridge in wild mountain country. There are some interesting remains on the site which can be accessed by half a days walk from the end of the Skippers Canyon Road. When you get there, there is a magnificent camping hut administered by the Department of Conservation. It lies in a spectacular scenic setting, as does the Phoenix mine site a couple of hours walk away, which also has interesting remains to view.
