InternetNZ strongly opposed to scrapping UFB

InternetNZ strongly opposed to scrapping UFB

InternetNZ (Internet New Zealand Inc.) is strongly opposed to Vodafone’s suggestion, made public this morning, to scrap construction of the Ultra-fast Broadband network in Wellington and Christchurch.

Responding to the idea that the old HFC network be used in lieu of new UFB fibre in Wellington and Christchurch, InternetNZ’s CEO, Jordan Carter, says that it’s a retrograde move that makes little sense for anyone other than Vodafone.

“UFB needs to be rolled out to as much of New Zealand as possible. This suggestion by Vodafone begs the question, why would Kiwis choose to make use of a second-class network when we are already on our way to having a first–class network?”

“From the beginning, we’ve been a huge supporter of the UFB. InternetNZ welcomed Prime Minster John Key’s commitment to the plan in April 2008, and even commissioned research on the cost of a fibre build that was released later that year. Our long-term commitment to a fibre future is well established.

InternetNZ expects the Government to stand strong on its position, which has been that the UFB rollout will continue around the country.

“Minister Adams has been spot on with her comments that regardless of Chorus’ financials the UFB build must go on. We back her and the Government to make good on their election pledge of a world-class network for New Zealand,” said Mr Carter.

“It makes good economic sense for Vodafone to seek to make best use of the HFC network it bought when it took over TelstraClear, but replacing the UFB isn’t the way to go.

“While we support Vodafone and others doing some lateral thinking about how to speed up and improve the UFB rollout, this particular suggestion just doesn’t pass muster. The HFC network can deliver decent speeds, but it’s not future proof – the UFB is, and New Zealand needs to stick with it,” Jordan Carter says.

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