CNH and Starlink partner to boost farmers’ access to satellite connectivity
Coming to the fore following the carnage of Cyclone Gabrielle, Starlink became well known for providing internet access even in NZ's most inaccessible places.
Telco infrastructure provider Chorus says that it believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband.
Chorus executive general manager of Fibre Frontier, Anna Mitchell told Rural News that its copper network has played a pivotal role in their national infrastructure, however, is now approaching end of life.
“The significant uptake in fibre and rise of innovative technologies such as satellite internet, expanded broadband access and regional wireless providers (WISPs), underscores the need for a timely reassessment of the copper network’s role and regulations as we look to retire the network within the decade,” she says.
Her comments come as the Commerce Commission says begins a formal investigation into the future of the copper network.
“Chorus strongly supports this investigation as regulatory settings should evolve as circumstances change,” she says.
“This will allow investment to be directed towards future-proof technologies that meet the changing needs of Kiwi homes and businesses. With many retailers moving away from promoting or selling copper-based services, we’re committed to working collaboratively with the Commerce Commission and other stakeholders to achieve this transition.”
“As New Zealand’s largest telecommunications infrastructure provider and the owner of the national copper network, Chorus believes all Kiwis – particularly those in the rural areas – need access to high-speed, reliable broadband,” says Mitchell.
Telecommunications Commissioner, Tristan Gilbertson says the Copper Services Investigation is the first step in the process, scheduled for completion by 31 December 2025.
The investigation could see copper deregulated outside fibre areas.
“Our copper network has been the backbone of telecommunications services for generations and has served us well – as have the regulatory protections wrapped around it. This investigation is about making sure that regulation keeps pace with change and remains fit-for-purpose,” Gilbertson says.
The Copper Services Investigation is focused on determining whether competitive, affordable alternatives to copper exist – and, if so, whether removing or reshaping copper regulation is in the best interests of consumers.
Farmers appear to be backing the Government's recent Resource Management Act (RMA) reforms announcement.
For the first time, all the big names in agricultural drone technology are being brought together under one marquee at the National Fieldays.
Fonterra has announced an improved third quarter performance – with a profit after tax of $1.15 billion, up $119 million on the same period last year.
The Fieldays Innovation Awards competition has attracted a diverse and impressive array of innovations from across the primary industries, highlighting the growing importance of technology shaping the future of farming.
Coming to the fore following the carnage of Cyclone Gabrielle, Starlink became well known for providing internet access even in NZ's most inaccessible places.
From this winter farmers will have a greater choice of feed types and blend options than ever before, thanks to Farmlands' purchase of animal nutrition company SealesWinslow.
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