Growth highlights insatiable appetite for internet data

13 July 2016

100 percent growth highlights New Zealanders’ insatiable appetite for internet data

· National monthly household average on Chorus’ network surpasses the 100GB milestone; tip of the iceberg as Chorus forecasts almost 170GB by June 2017

· Greater Auckland consumption well above the national average, followed closely by Wellington, Palmerston North, Rotorua and Dunedin

The amount of internet data being consumed by New Zealand households on Chorus’ network has grown almost 100% to more than 100 gigabytes (GB) a month since the start of 2015, according to figures released today by Chorus.

Chorus is calling it the tip of the iceberg – forecasting the average monthly household data usage to reach almost 170GB by June 2017, a further 64% increase from the end of
June 2016.

Rosalie Nelson, head of insights at Chorus, says this rapid growth in data usage reflects a move to the digital home – the coming together of the ‘smart’ home and high-speed broadband connectivity.

“This exponential rate of growth places New Zealand among some of the most internet data hungry countries in the world. Already more than half (53%) of New Zealanders now watch internet TV and the number of online film and TV platforms has exploded.

“But this isn’t just about watching more and more content online, it’s also about the rapid digitisation of our everyday lives. Broadband as the fourth utility sits at the heart of the home and plays a pivotal role in how we function in our day-to-day lives.

“Then you have this modern day multiplier effect on the amount of data being consumed by having lots of devices under the one roof competing for bandwidth at once. Two thirds of adult New Zealanders now own or have access to three or more smart devices. On a global scale, by 2022 the OECD forecasts there will be 14 billion connected smart devices, like appliances, phones, computers, cars and watches connected to households in OECD countries,” Rosalie says.

“In terms of future growth in data consumption – we see another big spike coming through the pipeline as the focus in entertainment shifts from increasingly high-definition to immersion with the arrival of virtual reality and 360 degree viewing technologies,” she adds.

What this means for the consumer – five tips for a better broadband experience

1. Check what broadband services are available at your home or business by visiting: www.chorus.co.nz/broadband-checker.

2. How much broadband data your household uses can change very quickly. When choosing a broadband plan think about the speed and capacity you’ll need for today, and for what you might need in six months or a year’s time.

3. It’s simple to set yourself up for online TV, but if you’re worried about it ask family and friends about what devices (such as Apple TV or Chromecast) they think might work best for you.

4. There are over 90 internet service providers (ISPs) in New Zealand and it pays to shop around for the best deal for your needs.

5. Make the most of your WiFi in your home: ensure your modem is up-to-date and, if possible, connect it with a cable to your TV and free up your WiFi for other smartphones and tablets.

ENDS

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