Following the change in alert levels and subsequent border restrictions last week, the NZ Police needed to bolster mobile connectivity at checkpoints to help ensure traffic continued to flow as smoothly and quickly as possible during the relevant checks.

They requested Vodafone and Downer’s assistance in setting up temporary cellsites (or a Cellsite On Wheels / COW) at the Southern and Northern borders in Auckland, which went live on 31 August and 2 September respectively.

Teams quickly mobilised their field crews to set up the cellsites to ensure 4G connectivity for the NZ Police’s mobile phones at the checkpoint, resulting in less waiting times for motorists transiting through the checkpoint. The checks are carried out on mobile devices, so fast connectivity is key.

Highlighting the importance of telco services, Tony Baird, Vodafone NZ Wholesale & Infrastructure Director, commented: “We’ve supported the NZ Police with connectivity for many years and were pleased to mobilise teams alongside Downer New Zealand to help bolster connectivity at the borders. Digital infrastructure and telco services are proving to be incredibly essential when lockdowns are in place, so during heightened alert levels we’ve been assisting NZ Police and other key services with mobile connectivity to keep New Zealanders safe.”

Commenting on the installation, Michael Good, Downer New Zealand’s General Manager – Telecommunications, said: “Working with Vodafone on the installation of the COWs is a seamless process because we have the right response plans and processes in place. These transportable sites and the set-up are designed to be minimal touch to allow for supporting critical infrastructure as quickly as possible. A big thanks to Vodafone and our team of dedicated technicians to make this seamless for everyone involved. We are proud to be playing a part in supporting NZ Police and the wider public.”

Vodafone teams are ready to be mobilised to roll out more connectivity services and COWs as needed.