The Government says New Zealand's huge potential for generating electricity through marine energy will be explored with three different marine energy projects.
Acting Energy Minister Hekia Parata says they will be a significant help in reaching the Government's target of 90% renewable electricity by 2025.
The projects are a wave energy device at Stewart Island, a cable linking to another device at Wellington's Moa Point and turbines at Parnell Baths in Auckland.
Ms Parata says there are an estimated 8000 megawatts of marine energy resources available, which is nearly as much as the current capacity of 9600 megawatts.
The projects will get funding of almost $900,000 and are expected to be built within two years.
Meanwhile, funding has been withdrawn for a separate tidal stream generator at Kaipara Harbour after the company involved, Crest Energy, failed to meet timelines.
