InternetNZ commissions New Zealand history of the Internet
Media Release
Friday 10 November 2006
InternetNZ (The Internet Society of New Zealand) is pleased to announce the commissioning of a book on the history of
the Internet in New Zealand, to be released by September 2007.
From a short list of excellent candidates, experienced technology journalist and author Keith Newman has been selected
to write the book, which will explore the impact of the Internet on New Zealand economically, politically and socially.
Newman has over 30 years experience as a journalist and has covered telecommunications, computing and the Internet in
New Zealand for the past 18 years. Newman has this year had published a substantial book on the Ratana religious
movement, Ratana Revisited, clearly demonstrating his ability to write in-depth and from the historical perspective.
InternetNZ spokesperson Jordan Carter says it is vital that the history of the Internet in New Zealand is captured now
while its pioneers are still alive and kicking.
“The beginning of the Internet is relatively recent and we are fortunate to still have access to key people who
initiated and developed the Internet in New Zealand. We hope also to bring others out of the woodwork to help complete
the picture of this incredible technological journey.”
The Internet began in New Zealand in the mid-1980s and as it has evolved New Zealanders have proven to be amongst the
highest users of the Internet per head of population in the world.
InternetNZ invites people with information and perspectives from the early days of the Internet in New Zealand to email
Keith Newman on wordman[at]wordworx.co.nz, or contact Susi Fookes at InternetNZ either by email
susi[at]internetnz.net.nz or phone 04 472 1600.
InternetNZ is an open membership, incorporated society, established to promote and protect the Internet in New Zealand.
ENDS