Trans-Tasman cable initiative update

media statement
7 May 2009

Trans-Tasman cable initiative update

As part of Budget 2008, the Government announced a $15 million capital allocation to be used to support the development of a new trans-Tasman cable to improve the resiliency of trans-Tasman connectivity. REANNZ was appointed as the lead agency for this project and was to act as an anchor tenant of this investment.

In October 2008, REANNZ issued an ROI/RFI seeking responses from the national and international supplier community to fulfil the Crown's and REANNZ's objectives for this project.

REANNZ received four responses. Only one of those responses (supplied by Kordia) offered REANNZ a solution that was compliant with the qualifying criteria outlined in the ROI/RFI. As a result, following discussion with officials, REANNZ has decided not to proceed to issue an RFP for this project. Given that Kordia’s cable project is still in the planning stages, REANNZ has decided not to negotiate directly with Kordia at this time.

REANNZ is now evaluating its ongoing international connectivity options to ensure trans-Tasman connectivity for KAREN members after September this year. REANNZ will work closely with Ministers to agree the best course of action that will satisfy its own requirements and any Government policy objectives.

ENDS

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