Media Technology

Eight new cell sites boost broadband services for rural New Zealanders

Additional rural internet and mobile access via Vodafone’s involvement in the Rural Connectivity Group

Vodafone NZ has switched on additional 4G mobile services at eight new cell sites over the past couple of weeks, meaning more rural New Zealanders can tap into high-quality wireless broadband in the country.

This is the latest in Vodafone’s commitment, as part of the Rural Connectivity Group (RCG) and in partnership with Farmside, to bring more world class 4G services to regional Kiwis across Aotearoa as part of the Rural Broadband Initiative 2 (RBI2) program.

The eight sites are located in:

  1. Punakaiki in the Buller District (live on 29 June)
  2. Fortification Hill in Dunedin City District (live on 30 June)
  3. Te Wera in the Stratford District (live on 30 June)
  4. Croisilles French Pass Rd in the Marlborough District (live on 8 July)
  5. Okiwi Bay in the Marlborough District (live on 8 July)
  6. Motuoapa in the Taupo District (live on 8 July)
  7. Putere Rd in the Wairoa District (live on 15 July)
  8. Mataroa in the Rangitikei District (live on 15 July

Vodafone’s Head of Networks and Platforms, Sharina Nisha says, “High quality broadband access is incredibly important for our country to thrive and we’re pleased to work with the RCG to bring this additional connectivity to rural New Zealand.

“Each new cell site will radically transform access to communication services and assist rural Kiwis to connect to phone and internet services.”

To be able to make a call in one of the 4G coverage areas, you need a VoLTE-enabled device that has been updated with the latest manufacturer's software. Learn more and see our list of VoLTE-enabled devices.

Vodafone works in partnership with Farmside, award-winning Timaru based provider, to offer Rural Broadband plans that connect New Zealanders to digital services.

For more information about cell sites, please visit https://www.vodafone.co.nz/broadband/rural/

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