Media release 25 November 2010

Auckland needs ultra fast broadband now

Auckland Council's Economic Development Forum has called on the Government to rapidly conclude tender negotiations for the Auckland region's rollout under the ultra fast and rural broadband initiatives and ensure tenderers prioritise the Auckland region in their build.

"We estimate that the innovation, growth and productivity benefits to the Auckland region from the delivery of ultra fast broadband are at least $900 million per year. Furthermore, there will be flow-on benefits for all New Zealand from early Auckland region rollout," said Councillor Arthur Anae, forum chairperson.

"This is a major policy initiative by the Government to realise both social and economic transformation. The Auckland region represents a third of the population of the country, has 31% of businesses locations, is in the four top regions of rural households and in the top three for rural businesses.

"The region must qualify as an early recipient under both funds, if the transformational outcomes being sought by the Government are to be realised for New Zealand," he said.

"We would hope to see ultra high-speed broadband under both these initiatives being delivered to our communities by the middle of next year at the latest."

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