Tauranga is aiming to become the first city in the country to offer free public Wi-Fi access throughout the CBD.

Downtown Tauranga and internet service provider EOL are teaming up to work on a new project offering businesses the change to have booster repeater equipment installed on their premises free of charge.

EOL's managing director Terry Coles says establishing a comprehensive public Wi-Fi network will allow people to connect to the internet using their smart phone or other devices when visiting Tauranga's CBD.

'It's a fantastic service for retailers and local businesses to be able to offer and it won't cost them – or the public – a cent.”

Downtown Tauranga manager Kirby Weis is backing the project and says a growing number of consumers now have smart phones or other mobile computers, and want Wi-Fi services to be available when they're out and about.
'Many local cafes are already tapping into this and offering free Wi-Fi to attract customers. 'But it costs those businesses to be able to offer wireless broadband. Now EOL will provide the service and equipment for free so I think downtown businesses will jump at that chance.”
A free Wi-Fi zone is already operational at the Goddard Centre and plans are in place to establish zones in Red Square, Devonport Road, Grey Street and Spring Street by May.