Over the Wire opens second NZ PoP

ASX-listed IT and telecommunications service provider Over the Wire (ASX: OTW) has announced plans to open a second network point of presence (PoP) in Albany, north of Auckland, bring its total number of PoPs to 25.

The company said the move would give it increased redundancy. “While OTW already has diverse connectivity from its existing network presence in Auckland through to the Australian MPLS core network, the move is key to delivering redundant PoPs in New Zealand and meeting increased demand for its services.”

It said also that a local network point of presence would enable it to form relationships with local wholesale carriers and “join together the best fit services at each location to form a more robust and cost-effective solution. “ Currently the company manages over 30 wholesale network vendor relationships, with services deployed in Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

Managing director Michael Omeros said: “Our initial expansion into New Zealand in 2012 was to allow better access to services for our Australian clients with a presence there. Over time we have expanded this to include like-minded providers wanting to gain access to the Australian market for voice and data services. The engagements have been positive and we plan to continue this expansion within New Zealand by growing our offerings and increasing our presence.

Marketing manager, Chris Jacko, said: “Once in place the new network design will include connectivity between the two NZ PoPs, as well as diverse connectivity back into the main Australian MPLS core network. … OTW currently uses reach into New Zealand to connect branch offices back into Australian networks, as well as carrying telephony traffic.”

He added: “No disruption to client services is expected throughout this process, and the end result will be one step closer to being able to provide a more complete service to our neighbours across the ditch.