Rural Connectivity Study
We have completed a study into rural connectivity in New Zealand under section 9A of the Telecommunications Act 2001 (the Act).
The goal of the study was to paint a detailed picture of the rural telecommunications market – the options available to rural communities, businesses, and farmers beyond the national UFB fibre footprint, and how these are performing.
Following the successful roll-out of fibre to 87% of the population, this study marked the beginning of a deeper exploration into the state of connectivity in rural areas and how the remainder of New Zealanders are being impacted.
The Rural Connectivity Study aimed to provide better information about the technologies available outside fibre areas – mapping where they are offered, who provides them, and assessing their pricing, performance, and consumer experience.
The study contributed to closing the information gap between urban and rural connectivity and provided valuable insights for policymakers, advocacy groups, and rural consumers. To support the development of a more comprehensive picture of rural connectivity in New Zealand, we engaged directly with a range of stakeholders including network operators, service providers, end-users, advocacy groups, and government departments.
The findings of the Rural Connectivity Study were incorporated into the rural chapter of the 2023 Annual Monitoring Report.
We have now incorporated the study’s processes into the Annual Monitoring Reports. This integration enables us to present a detailed view of connectivity across rural and urban New Zealand, offering deeper insights to the telecommunications landscape.