Vodafone combines with Federated Farmers

Media Release

22 November 2012

Vodafone combines with Federated Farmers

Vodafone is celebrating its appointment as premier partner and official communications supplier to Federated Farmers, announced at Federated Farmers Christmas event in Wellington last night.

As part of the three year contract, Vodafone will provide fixed line and mobile services to the Federated Farmers team, and design a tailored pricing plan for all Federated Farmers’ members.

Andrew Fairgray, Vodafone’s General Manager of Sales, says the contract strengthens Vodafone’s commitment to the industry and rural strategy.

“This partnership allows Vodafone to tap into the heart of rural New Zealand and to provide best of breed technologies. By capturing insights from members we can further enhance the offering and value we provide. We’re involved in innovative research, as well as in grassroots support in the regions through our rural ambassadors and rural relationship managers.”

Vodafone already supports organisations including Young Farmers , Rural Women, Rural Contractors and the Rural GP Network.

“Telecommunications and broadband are absolutely critical for our rural communities and businesses,” explains Federated Farmers’ CEO, Connor English.

“It’s critical that New Zealand’s rural communities have the best possible communications infrastructure. We advocated successfully for increased investment in rural broadband, greater competition and improved mobile phone coverage. We now want to see a sensible release of the digital dividend spectrum to ensure that our rural communities can participate fully in the advance of technology. “

English continues: “We’re delighted to partner with Vodafone. They share our view that rural New Zealand needs the best technology and tools – and we look forward to working with them in the coming years.”

Vodafone has been busy delivering the Government’s Rural Broadband Initiative across rural New Zealand. Under the six year scheme the company will deliver wireless broadband through 154 new cell sites and manage 387 upgrades to existing infrastructure. Today, 19 new RBI sites and 130 upgrades to existing sites are completed servicing over 80,000 address points across rural New Zealand.

ENDS

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