Ultrafast Broadband a major step forward for Kapiti and Levin
Otaki MP Nathan Guy says the roll out of ultra-fast broadband will have a major impact on local schools, businesses and healthcare.
“Horowhenua and Kapiti will both receive dramatically improved internet services, as part of the National Government’s $1.5 billion initiative.
“This is really important to our regional economic development. This will connect us to the world, encouraging business and economic links that have never been that easy before.
“Around 10 Levin schools, 80 healthcare providers and 460 businesses will be connected starting in August this year.
“In Kapiti, around 15 schools, 75 healthcare providers and an estimated 600 businesses will soon benefit from ultra fast broadband.
“Schools will be able to use video-conferencing, and tertiary students will find it much easier to study remotely.
“Local exporters will be better connected to their markets, and many professionals such as accountants and lawyers will be able to offer their services to national and international clients.
“It will have a major impact on local health services as well. X-rays will be sent in seconds, rather than days via courier, which will save time and money. People will be able to engage with specialists online from home.
”I'm sure it will help the Horowhenua Health Centre perform more efficiently as it moves towards an integrated model to be launched later this year.
“Internet speeds of up to 100 megabits per second will be available, up to 10 times faster than current broadband speeds. Residential wholesale will start from less than $40 per month.”
As part of the deal, Telecom will split off its network arm, Chorus, into a completely separate company, so that all broadband retailers can compete fairly to sell ultra-fast broadband.
“Together with the Rural Broadband Initiative, this will make us one of the most wired countries in the world,” says Mr Guy.
*Note – healthcare providers includes services such as GPs, chemists, physiotherapists and dentists.