Jubilant opponents of the wind farm have hailed the decision as a victory for the "small guys".
Appellant John Douglas said it showed what could happen when community groups stood up for what they believed in.
"It's also a slap in the face to show companies they have to respect what's in the district plan and the criteria in the Resource Management Act."
The Alexandra man attended every day of the environment court hearing and opposed the wind farm because of the high scientific and scenic values of the area, which he believed had been underrated.
"It's been a mission and a-half but now it's all justified. Basically, it supports the decision we made to appeal it and the court has listened to the people."
Otago Goldfields Heritage Trust past president Mike Floate, of Tarras, was "relieved and excited - they made the right decision". The trust was a party to the appeal and its concern was that the view from Old Dunstan Rd would be spoiled by the sight of 176 turbines.
"Now, people will still be able to drive over the road and it's mostly like it was in the old days, without turbines on the horizon destroying the experience," Dr Floate said.
The Central Otago Recreational Users Forum was another party to the appeal and forum secretary, Jan Kelly, of Wanaka, praised the commission.
"It must've been very hard for the commission. They had an unenviable task to perform."
The forum had fought for the high value of the landscape to be recognised and preserved forever.
"Our focus is the Central Otago brand - 'A World of Difference' - and this is an extremely special place, between two conservation areas. Having an industrial site there was always a bad idea."