InternetNZ welcomes release of Internet survey

InternetNZ welcomes release of Internet survey

Media Release – 19 December 2007

InternetNZ (the Internet Society of New Zealand Inc) welcomes the
release of preliminary results from the World Internet Project (WIP) New
Zealand Survey.

InternetNZ is contributing to funding the WIP New Zealand Survey, which
is part of an international research initiative that aims to track
global trends in Internet use. The survey is being conducted by Auckland
University of Technology’s Institute of Culture, Discourse & Communication.

Preliminary results from the 2007 New Zealand survey, released today,
have found that Internet access and usage in New Zealand is strongly
related to age, income and area of residence.

The survey also found that the Internet rates higher than traditional
media as an information source, and New Zealand users are active in
generating Internet content and using the Internet for participating in
social activities.

InternetNZ has been an enthusiastic supporter of the World Internet
Project since 2006 when the Society sponsored WIP’s California-based
Project Director Jeffrey Cole to come to New Zealand to talk about the
project.

Executive Director Keith Davidson describes the World Internet Project
as a significant piece of international research that, over time, will
prove useful in comparing Internet trends in New Zealand with those in
other countries.

“The first results are useful, highlighting some interesting aspects of
New Zealand’s digital divide. For instance, the Pasifika community tends
to be behind other ethnic groups in engagement with the Internet,
whereas Maori and Pakeha exhibit greater levels of engagement and Asians
the highest level of engagement.”

“Full survey results are expected to be available mid-2008. We will
follow this project with interest and look to use the results to create
a solid base for development of sound initiatives towards increased and
better use of technology.

“InternetNZ is delighted to see the World Internet Project reach the
conclusion of stage one with its inaugural New Zealand survey and
congratulates AUT on its progress to-date,” says Davidson.

ends

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