Wireless & Broadband Forum
MEDIA RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New Zealand Broadband Result Encouraging
Wednesday 7th November 2007
The Wireless and Broadband Forum are encouraged by the results of the latest OECD survey of Broadband Connectivity.
While New Zealand had been languishing in the bottom quarter in recent years, the current position at 20 out of 30 is a
vast improvement considering the massive initiatives being implemented in other countries.
"We are celebrating the enhanced rating because it means that we are moving in the right direction as a country" said
Steve Simms, the newly elected President of the Wireless and Broadband Forum, "I think its unfair for other commentators
around the country to bash the efforts so far"
"New Zealand is still climbing a hill but we've got more traction with the recent Telecom commitment to Broadband and
with other initiatives in the WiMax broadband area. Like all things, New Zealand needs a big goal for broadband because
the economic benefit to the country is vital. Internationally we are competing with massive populations who have very
large Government led capital infrastructure projects "
The Wireless and Broadband Forum are disappointed that broadband commentary seemed to be mostly negative when in fact we
are starting to punch above our weight as a country.
"Earlier this year Rod Drury and more recently the New Zealand Institute outlined headlines to help thought leaders,
industry and Government to move positively forward" said Simms, "now its up to industry to continue to work with these
headlines and contribute to the New Zealand economy by providing competitive reliable broadband services"
[END]
About the Wireless and Broadband Forum
The Wireless and Broadband Forum are an energetic non-profit ICT industry group that facilitates collaboration,
education, motivation, promotion, peer access, research, networking and government liaison.
Our members are focused on driving economic value through Wireless and Broadband innovation. By being part of our forum,
you’ll be in one of the largest ICT industry groups who have been around for many years. Members include carriers,
software developers, service providers and business users.
For more information - www.wirelessforum.org.nz