Trans-Tasman talks to look at roaming rates

Photo / Natalie Slade

Roaming rates for mobile phones between New Zealand and Australia will be on the agenda in bilateral discussions between the countries.

Communications and Information Technology Minister Steven Joyce is attending the Korea Australia New Zealand (KANZ) Summit in Tasmania for the next two days, and is due to have discussions with Australian Senator Stephen Conroy regarding roaming rates.

A discussion document was released in both countries last May seeking stakeholder views on whether a formal investigation into the rates was warranted.

"New Zealanders have expressed concern that the prices charged for international mobile roaming, and in particular data charges, are excessive and that pricing transparency and consumer awareness of prices is low - leading to 'bill shock'," Joyce said.

"With the greatest volume of roaming traffic occurring between New Zealand and Australia - approximately one million visitors travel annually from each country to the other - it is appropriate that we look at the market."

Joyce said the biannual summit, which runs for two days from April 27, was a forum for business and government officials from the three countries to discuss broadband infrastructure and the latest research and developments in digital applications and content.

"New Zealand, Australia and Korea have all identified broadband infrastructure as critical to economic growth," he said.

"KANZ builds on existing trade and ICT cooperation agreements between New Zealand and Korea and provides opportunities for bilateral discussions with each of the other parties as well as exploration of joint projects."

- NZPA