Tauranga aims for total CBD wi-fi coverage

A partnership between local internet service provider EOL and city group Downtown Tauranga will soon see the city’s CBD covered 100% by a public wi-fi network.

EOL has already set up free wi-fi zones along The Strand and at other downtown locations, and is currently installing booster repeater equipment in local businesses, free of charge.

The only payment is for users who want to purchase one of EOL’s secure service packages, which range from $10 for one day or 150MB to $50 for 30 days or 2GB.

Kirby Weis, manager of Mainstreet Tauranga, says he thinks businesses will jump at the chance to offer wi-fi for free.

"Many local cafes are already tapping into this and offering free wi-fi to attract customers,” Weis says.

"But it costs those businesses to be able to offer wireless broadband. Now EOL will provide the service and equipment for free.”

How’s the wi-fi in your city? Would you use a free service like this, or would you prefer to pay and know it’s secure? Post your comments below. Image source here.