Ultra-fast broadband’s first switch

Local internet providers have been battling to switch on the Bay of Plenty’s first ultra-fast broadband connection this week.

Internet providers NetSmart and EOL both connected customers to the Government’s new $1.3billion ultra-fast broadband (UFB) network.

Shane Ward shows off the ultra-thin, ultra-fast broadband fibre.

NetSmart’s Shane Ward and Paul Horak officially switched Tauranga company Bay Insurance onto UFB on Wednesday.

They were the first customers to sign up to the UFB network and have the certificate to prove it.

Shane says making the switch is a landmark for technology in New Zealand that will provide Tauranga companies with a service that will improve their business potential.

“We’re pretty excited. Tauranga is coming of age as far as technology is concerned.

“This has been spoken about by the Government and all sorts of groups for a long time – that day has arrived and we’re excited to be part of that.

“All I can see is potential for good business to be done, we’re happy to be at the forefront.

NetSmart began operating in Tauranga 14-years-ago and Shane says the new technology will allow them to expand their services further.

“Although we’re Tauranga based, because of the technology it allows us to expand our services outside of Tauranga as well. It’s opening up our market place.

While the pair swears they are the first providers in the region to connect a local business, Tauranga based internet provider EOL also claim to have connected the first Tauranga resident this week.

EOL announced on Monday, Priority One’s chief executive Andrew Coker is the first Tauranga resident to use the new network after signing up for one of EOL’s LightWave broadband plans.

Andrew says having faster internet access at his Monmouth Street home will be a dream come true.

“The significantly faster upload/download speeds UFB provides will enable us to take full advantage of gaming, as well as new advanced TV services such as 3D, quad and ultra-high definition.

“High quality video conferencing will also enable me to communicate more effectively with friends and colleagues overseas,” says Andrew.

“UFB helps future-proof my family, allowing us to take advantage of new technologies as they arise.”

Shane says Netsmart believe Bay Insurance is the first company to get ultra-fast broadband.

“We are certainly not aware of any other company with ultra-fast broadband in Tauranga right now. However, the important message here is that ultra-fast is now up and running and if our friends at EOL can offer ultra-fast services too then that’s great because it gives local businesses more choice - we welcome competition.

“It’s great to see local companies beating the larger telco’s".