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.
On the eve of his departure from Federated Farmers board, Richard McIntyre is thanking farmers for their support and words of encouragement during his stint as a farmer advocate.
A project reducing strains and sprains on farm has won the Innovation category in the New Zealand Workplace Health and Safety Awards 2025.
Beef + Lamb New Zealand (B+LNZ), in partnership with the Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) and other sector organisations, has launched a national survey to understand better the impact of facial eczema (FE) on farmers.
One of New Zealand's latest and largest agrivoltaics farm Te Herenga o Te Rā is delivering clean renewable energy while preserving the land's agricultural value for sheep grazing under the modules.
Global food company Nestle’s chair Paul Bulcke will step down at its next annual meeting in April 2026.
Brendan Attrill of Caiseal Trust in Taranaki has been announced as the 2025 National Ambassador for Sustainable Farming and Growing and recipient of the Gordon Stephenson Trophy at the National Sustainability Showcase at in Wellington this evening.
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