Several Central Otago towns in line for ultrafast broadband

Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean said she was delighted that several towns in the Central Otago area were in line for ultrafast broadband, as the Government moved to expand the network.

“Wanaka, Lake Hawea, Alexandra, Cromwell and Clyde are among about 110 towns identified as potential areas for inclusion for UFB extension.

“The long list of potential towns and communities is based on projected population size to 2023 and has been supported by the submissions made by territorial authorities during the Registrations of Interest process.

“Central Otago people understand the importance of better connectivity, and the Government is focused on getting faster broadband to as many as possible.

“We want people living outside the bigger centres to enjoy the economic, health and education benefits that fibre can bring.

“The bids will now be assessed, town-by-town, on a commercial basis, and a short-list of towns will be determined from that analysis. Then commercial negotiations can begin.

“During Budget 2015 the Government set aside a contingency of up to $210m from the Future Investment Fund for the extension of the Ultra-fast Broadband programme.”

ENDS

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