Broadband unleashed on rural New Zealand

Federated Farmers intensive work with the Government has seen it announce new targets for rural broadband at a cost of $300 million.

“This is a big deal which has farmers very excited. It paves the way for additional economic and social growth in New Zealand’s largest and most important export generating sector,” says Don Nicolson, Federated Farmers President.

“The Government’s initial announcement for broadband policy and investment left one quarter of New Zealand’s population out in the cold. Clearly that was a poor deal for farmers and a large proportion of New Zealanders. That’s why Federated Farmers had to act.

“Over the past few months, we’ve had extensive discussions with Government and are pleased that it has listened to the Federation’s concerns and suggestions. This announcement is a significant step forward and a big feather in Federated Farmers cap.

“The Federation worked hard to ensure Government increased its contribution to rural broadband from $48 million and we now have real targets that will cost $300 million. While we are yet to see how this funding will be sourced and applied, the investment level is a huge boost that will deliver genuine economic and social growth.

“Bringing all New Zealanders on to ultra high-speed internet opens up global and other opportunities both inside and outside the farm gate. It chips away at the tyranny of distance and helps connect rural New Zealand to the world. That’s why it has been at the top of the Federation’s priority list for some time.

“Along with the potential for improved cell phone coverage, this opens up everything from remote veterinary and health diagnosis to enhanced education, training, banking and accounting. It also allows farmers to speak directly to consumers of New Zealand’s food and fibre. What we are talking about is a paradigm shift.

“It has to be remembered that farmers and rural New Zealand are more exposed than most to the global economy. This broadband announcement will unleash the entrepreneurial and inventive spirit that typifies New Zealand’s farming community.

“It also gives farmers the ability to improve productivity and export production, enhancing their contribution to New Zealand’s economic and social wellbeing,” Mr Nicolson concluded.