Sniffers and stumblers unite: there be treasure in them there hotspots

Wireless capability is being put to the test this weekend in Auckland with a Wi-Fi treasure hunt.

NZWireless, a nascent free wireless community, is holding the event to promote the community's existence and for a bit of fun, says co-organiser Nick Le Mouton.

"Just to get people out there really and to have a bit of fun."

The event organisers will position a number of wireless hotspots around Auckland's inner city suburbs and participants will be able to find clues to the next hotspot. Prizes will be awarded for those that find the hotspots first and those that get the greatest signal strength.

Le Mouton says participants shouldn't face prosecution under the Crimes Amendment Act because the community is setting up its own wireless hotspots to find rather than having entrants try to find existing, commercial hotspots.

Interested parties can find out more and register for the event here.