Northland UFB boost ‘‘too slow’’
The Government’s move to extend the ultra fast broadband fibre network further in to Northland is expected to provide a significant boost to the region’s economy.
Twenty locations across Northland will be hooked up as part of the $33.8m second phase of the Government’s national $300 million UFB2 rollout.
But it can’t come soon enough for some as only two will be effective by the end of this year; Hikurangi and Waipu.
Far North towns including Ahipara, Kaitaia, Moerewa, Kawakawa, Russell, Kaikohe, Kerikeri, Paihia, Taipa Bay and Mangonui will be connected by Chorus within six years.
Northland MP Winston Peters says only half of Northlanders will be able to have UFB by 2023 while in Auckland 90 per cent of people will be able to use it.
‘‘That’s not a fair New Zealand, and nor is it a reflection of a Government that wants to give provincial New Zealand a chance to improve economically. The whole roll-out is too slow and it’s affecting business in Northland.’’
Far North Mayor John Carter says the district can’t wait six years for faster internet.
‘‘It is good that Northland is ahead of 10 other regions in the queue for ultra-fast broadband. However, 2023 is not soon enough.’’
The announcement was made at Dargaville’s War Memorial Hall on January 26 by the Associate Minister for Economic Development Nathan Guy.
Lines company Northpower won the contract to build networks in 12 Whangarei and Kaipara towns over the next four years. The first to benefit is Hikurangi where the build starts in April followed by Waipu in June. Connections at these two sites are expected to be available before Christmas.
Northland Inc chief executive David Wilson says digital access was fundamental to strengthening and diversifying the regional economy.
‘‘Most businesses transact online these days; this is another step towards Northland businesses being able to do that.’’
Other towns to benefit include: One Tree Point in July, Ruakaka in March 2018 and Mangawhai Village in September 2018. The Kaiwaka UFB network build will begin in April 2020, Maungaturoto, Waikaraka and Ruawai in 2020.
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