The UFB build on Waiheke Island is now complete, giving 5600 local homes and businesses faster and more reliable internet.
That's according to Communications Minister Amy Adams, who says private and public investment in the build totalled nearly $9.6 million, and took less than 18 months to complete after the rollout began in June 2015.
"Waiheke Island is the 21st area to have its Ultra-Fast Broadband (UFB) build completed under the first phase of the programme," explains Adams.
Waiheke Island's UFB uptake was around 20% in September this year, with more than 850 connections.
"Nationwide, uptake has now reached around 30%, and the build is over 70% complete.
All schools on Waiheke Island are now able to connect to fibre through the UFB and Rural Broadband Initiative programmes. Te Huruhi School, Waiheke High School and Waiheke Primary School are also all connected to Network 4 Learning," she adds.
Chorus has also completed two Rural Broadband Initiative fixed-line cabinet upgrades on Waiheke Island.
"Fast and reliable internet is absolutely critical for New Zealand's future, and it's great news for those living on Waiheke Island, who are able to enjoy the benefits and retain their lifestyle," says Adams.
"The Government has set an ambitious new target for New Zealand's connectivity – that by 2025, 99 percent of New Zealanders will have access to speeds of at least 50 Mbps, and the remaining one percent will have access to at least 10 Mbps.
Whangarei, Te Awamutu, Oamaru, Cambridge, Tokoroa, Hawera, Ashburton, Blenheim, Whanganui, Taupō, Timaru, Greymouth, Masterton, New Plymouth, Hamilton, Tauranga, Waiuku, Rotorua, Queenstown, Whakatane and now Waiheke Island all have completed UFB networks.
