What is wave energy?
Wave energy, also called wave power, uses the movement of ocean waves to produce useful energy. A wave energy converter captures part of that movement. In an electricity project, power is then collected and brought ashore through the project’s electrical infrastructure.
Wave energy is different from tidal energy. Waves are driven by wind acting on the ocean. Tides are related to the gravitational influence of the moon and sun. Both sit within the wider ocean energy sector.
From an ocean resource to a New Zealand project.
A stretch of energetic coastline is a starting point. Development also needs a suitable device, a workable grid connection, access for marine operations, environmental assessment, engagement with mana whenua and a credible commercial case.
For a prospective project, the questions need to be considered together:
- The resource: what wave conditions occur at the site, and how do they vary?
- The location: how do depth, seabed conditions, cable route and other ocean uses affect the options?
- The electricity system: where could power connect, and what studies and upgrades would be required?
- The people and environment: whose interests, rights, knowledge and livelihoods need to inform the work?
- The delivery plan: what would installation, servicing, recovery and eventual removal involve?
NIWA’s New Zealand wave and tidal resource material explains why understanding the local resource is an important part of development. Read the resource overview ↗
Where CorPower Ocean fits.
CorPower Ocean is the wave-energy technology informing Ngaru’s pathway. Its approach uses a buoy and controlled motion to capture wave energy. The manufacturer describes active tuning for energy capture and a detuned mode for extreme conditions.
Manufacturer testing and technology evidence are relevant inputs. A New Zealand project still needs its own site, engineering and commercial assessment. Overseas results are not a guarantee of local project output or cost.
Explore Ngaru’s technology page ↗ · CorPower Ocean’s technical explanation ↗
A development pathway, with clear next steps.
Ngaru’s focus is progressing the work needed to assess and develop wave energy in Aotearoa. This page does not announce an operating New Zealand wave farm, a final investment decision or an electricity supply commitment.
Explore our Aotearoa development pathway, the potential electricity system role of wave energy, and our partner and investor enquiry pathways.
Questions partners often need answered.
Is wave energy the same as offshore wind?
No. Wave devices capture energy from water movement. Wind turbines capture energy from moving air. Projects may share some marine infrastructure or operational considerations, but they need different resource and engineering assessments.
Can wave power be assessed alongside other renewables?
Yes. A useful assessment compares the timing of generation, connection requirements and costs across the energy mix. The result depends on real resource and system data. Wave energy should not be described as a guaranteed stand-alone source of continuous electricity.
What information should a potential partner bring?
Start with the role you want to explore, the relevant location or electricity demand, your timeframe, and the information you would need for a next-stage assessment. Commercially sensitive detail can be discussed through an agreed process.
Prepared by Ngaru Energy Group. External reference links checked 18 October 2026.