More of rural New Zealand can now connect to rural wireless broadband technology following another 18 mobile cell sites going live over the past few weeks, as part of Vodafone’s involvement in the Rural Connectivity Group (RCG).
As Sharina Nisha, Head of Platforms, Vodafone NZ explains: “Enhancing rural internet access is a large priority and it’s great to pass this milestone of building 150 mobile cell sites as part of the Rural Connectivity Group. We’re pleased to collaborate with our industry partners to benefit Aotearoa, as we understand how important connectivity is to ensure our rural communities continue to develop and grow.”
This means locals in the following areas now have access to better mobile and wireless broadband connectivity:
- Mt Tiger, Whangarei District
- Peak Road, Auckland Council
- Tauwhare, Waikato District
- Pikowai East, Whakatane District
- Kutarere, Opotiki District
- Omaio, Opotiki District
- Tongaporutu, New Plymouth District
- Tikokino Highway, Hastings District
- Fordell South, Rangitikei District
- Fordell North, Wanganui District
- Pohangina Valley, Manawatu District
- Pohangina, Manawatu District
- Kikiwa, Tasman District
- Mahana, Tasman District
- Takaka, Tasman District
- Woodbury, Timaru District
- Taieri Mouth, Clutha District
- Mokoreta, Southland District
Rural broadband is delivered over a fast 4G mobile connection, which means the internet can be delivered wirelessly and removes the need for underground cabling to connect households. As this technology includes 4G Calling via VoLTE, mobile users also benefit from crystal clear voice calls.
This also means that a 4G-enabled device is required to connect to an RCG site. More information, including which mobile phones this includes, is available here: https://www.vodafone.co.nz/our-networks/volte/