Computerworld

Rural NZ set to benefit as Kiwi ISP embarks on new venture

“We understand that isolation and lack of connectivity can be a real issue for people living in remote areas."

Rural communities will soon have unparalleled access to the internet thanks to a new partnership between Rural Health Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand (RHAANZ) and ISP Wireless Nation.

The joint venture brings farmers and rural residents closer to faster, more reliable satellite services offered by the New Zealand owned broadband business.

Wireless Nation’s technical director, Tom Linn says he is pleased to be working with RHAANZ as both companies share a common goal: to connect New Zealanders everywhere with the internet.

“We understand that isolation and lack of connectivity can be a real issue for people living in remote areas," he says.

"We welcome the Government’s new funding for improving rural broadband (RBI2) and the opportunity to be part of the discussion for how it is best utilised.

"Wireless Nation operates New Zealand’s fastest, most reliable satellite broadband for rural New Zealanders. We use the powerful Optus satellite network with speeds of up to 10Mbps, which has “hot” signal strength over New Zealand.

“Farmers don’t have to wait for broadband to reach them – they can have quick and reliable internet now."

RHAANZ chief executive Michelle Thompson says she is delighted to be working with Wireless Nation to achieve the organisation’s goal of improving rural connectivity.

“We believe good reliable and affordable connectivity is critical for the health and wellbeing of rural communities – especially in regard to minimising the sense of isolation for our rural families and improving access to health services through the likes of telemedicine and video consultations," she adds.

"It also opens up business and economic development opportunities as well as increasing the overall liveability of rural NZ."

Rural businesses, communities and health organisations will have an opportunity to provide advice to the Government regarding RBI2 at the TUANZ and RHAANZ Rural Connectivity Symposium which takes place in Wellington at the James Cook Hotel on Thursday 28 May 2015.