Rotorua MP Todd McClay says that uptake to the Ultra-Fast Broadband (UFB) network, currently being rolled out across the country, has been strong so far locally, and will provide great benefits to businesses and families.
Recent statistics from the Communications Minister show Rotorua has jumped at the chance to signup to faster internet, with nearly 18,000 premises around the city now able to connect to the network.
This is on the back of a 15.4 per cent jump in connections in the past three months, with uptake now more than 12 per cent city wide.
"Once completed, 20,960 premises will be able to access UFB in Rotorua. This has major benefits to the local economy, as more and more business is now being done online and it will be, particularly good for tourism," says Mr McClay.
"Faster internet is important. Access to UFB enables better access to cloud based software and high definition video streaming, giving businesses a competitive advantage.
"More than 2,500 users, including schools, hospitals, businesses and households, are now experiencing the benefits of faster internet in Rotorua. I encourage local people to sign up and experience the benefits the network provides."
Mr McClay says the Government's Rural Broadband initiative and the recent announcement of an additional $152 million to $210 million to lift the UFB programme coverage from 75 per cent to 80 per cent of New Zealanders would mean that people living outside the city limits would also be in line for better internet connectivity.
"Recent internet speed upgrades at Okareka and other lakeside communities have been welcomed and it's my hope that this additional funding will bring broadband to more people in the Rotorua district," he said.
