MEDIA RELEASE
26 August, 2014
Orcon unlocks the internet with launch of Global Mode
Survey results suggest broadcast TV is dying, with an overwhelming preference to stream online content. Orcon responds
with Global Mode and low cost 100Mb/s UFB plans
New Orcon General Manager, Michael Shirley, today announced Orcon customers will be able to access previously blocked
international websites with Global Mode, coinciding with survey results pointing to a shift from broadcast TV to online
streaming.
Global Mode, now live, is a free and automatic service for Orcon customers that allows Kiwis to access global streaming
websites like Netflix, Hulu and BBC iPlayer.
Michael Shirley says, “For too long now, consumers have been limited in regards to the websites they can access and
content they can watch. Our customers want a platform where they can make those decisions for themselves and it’s great
to be able to offer it to them.”
The internet company has also announced a 100Mb/s Fibre plan for $105 per month for 100GB or $115 per month unlimited
data, meaning households with multiple devices can really maximise the greater content options now available.
A recent survey of more than 4,000 Orcon customers shows that three out of every four customers prefer to stream content
online. And only one in five customers prefer to download content with little support for watching it via traditional
broadcast TV.
Mr Shirley says, “We expect this trend to continue. Broadcast TV is dying so we want to give customers access to even
more online content, matched with cheaper high-spec ultra-fast broadband plans”.
In June Google awarded Orcon UFB with YouTube HD verification after passing the challenging rating criteria in Google’s
new Video Quality Report. The ratings show that Orcon UFB customers stream YouTube in HD at least 90 per cent of the
time.
“The Fibre 100 Unlimited plan is perfect for families or flats which consume loads of HD content on multiple devices or
enjoy gaming; all while not having to worry about buffering and bill shock at the end of the month,” he adds.
“Streaming online TV shouldn’t have to mean low definition.”
One week into his role, the industry veteran with more than 20 years’ Telco experience, says the future is looking
bright for Orcon and Orcon customers.
“We have the right people who are passionate about continuing to bring First World Internet to New Zealand, and we will
continue to deliver it through the best, most innovative products and services”.
For more information visit www.orcon.net.nz.
Ends