Social and economic boost should be seized

Northpower Fibre Limited Media Statement
Date: 9 April, 2014
Subject: Social and economic boost should be seized

Whangarei is on the cusp of 'once in a lifetime' opportunity to boost economic and social development, with the local ultra-fast broadband network just weeks away from completion.

But Chairperson of Northpower Fibre, Jo Brosnahan is sounding a warning to locals that they risk missing out on a massive opportunity if they hesitate to connect to what has recently been classed as New Zealand's fastest broadband network.

"Whangarei will be the first city in New Zealand to be fully connected to ultrafast broadband. The sooner that people get on board the better because this is a local success story in the making - the likes of which we will not see again in this lifetime," says Mrs Brosnahan.

"Simplistically what they have to do is move from their copper phone and broadband connections and connect to the fibre network that is now throughout Whangarei. They can do this through their current service provider or one of the many retailers able to offer services over Northpower Fibre’s network."

Those already on the network say it is saving them time and money and creating new opportunities for businesses, schools and healthcare providers.

"I have seen at first hand just what people are achieving with it. In particular, it is wonderful to see primary school students succeeding through the e-learning opportunities that it presents. There is a real sense of community around it.

“This is something Whangarei should be celebrating because so many people and organisations have worked together so amazingly well over the past three years to make this happen for the city. It's remarkable really."

Most of Whangarei can connect to the Northpower Fibre UFB network now, and by the end of May, fibre connectivity will be available to more than 19,000 homes and businesses.

Mrs Brosnahan says Whangarei now has a world class communications platform to help drive prosperity in the wider region. This will enable modern internet based businesses to operate nationally and internationally, while working locally.

"This means that there is an opportunity to have all of the advantages of Whangarei's wonderful lifestyle while growing a business that extends well beyond Whangarei.”

Ironically, Mrs Brosnahan was Chair of Northland's Regional Development Council more than 25 years ago.

"The likes of fibre was not even on the radar then, nor were the internet or cellphones. So to step forward to this is quite remarkable and I am thrilled Whangarei is now able to embrace this opportunity. My challenge to people is to do just that.”

A map of Northpower Fibre’s Whangarei network, along with a list of retail service providers (broadband providers) on the Northpower Fibre network can be found at www.northpowerfibre.co.nz

ENDS

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