The national grid is a vital part of New Zealand's infrastructure. Without Transpower's substations, transmission equipment, control centres and the people who design, manage and maintain them, the country could not function in the 21st century. In 2008, New Zealand's economic well-being depends on electricity. The development of the grid is an important element of our industrial, commercial, political and social history. Connecting the Country tells the story of the early engineers, surveyors, linemen and operators, and describes how their commitment to 'keep the lights on' is still central to the ethos of those who run the national grid today.