Big solar-powered subdivision for quake city

12:23 pm on 3 February 2012

New Zealand's first large-scale solar subdivision will be built in earthquake-stricken Christchurch as part of the city's rebuild.

The 2200 subdivision in the north-west of the city will supply homeowners with about a quarter of their energy needs.

It is being developed by Maxim Projects, Meridian Energy and SolarCity, whose chief executive Andrew Booth says the development lines up with the views of locals who want a green, sustainable city.

Mr Booth says 250 homes have already been presold even though the house design and pricing is still being worked out.