Vodafone has switched on additional 4G mobile services in parts of rural New Zealand, which means more New Zealanders can stay connected during the COVID-19 lockdown.
The new cell sites are the latest in Vodafone’s commitment, as part of the Rural Connectivity Group, to bring forward world class 4G services for more Kiwis across Aotearoa during this unprecedented time of uncertainty.
These 15 new cell sites in twelve towns will radically transform access to communication services and will likely assist 1159 rural Kiwis during the COVID-19 lockdown.
Vodafone’s head of Networks and Platforms, Sharina Nisha says, “With the entire country on lockdown, connectivity is more important than ever, and the telecommunications industry is pleased to work together to keep New Zealanders connected. The additional mobile connectivity will provide essential online access for remote working, at-home learning and entertainment while Kiwis spend more time indoors.
“Vodafone is offering unlimited* data to our rural customers from midnight to 9am daily during the COVID-19 lockdown. This will allow customers to download Netflix or entertainment content at low-peak times ready for viewing the next day, so we can maintain connectivity for residents when internet traffic spikes and people are using the internet for work and learning purposes.”
Vodafone is working with Farmside, award-winning rural broadband provider, to connect more New Zealanders together.
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Notes to editor:
*A reminder that our Fair Use Policy continues to apply. Vodafone NZ reserves the right to apply its Traffic Management Policy, to improve the overall performance and experience among our customers, and to protect our network.
Connecting to these cell-sites requires a VoLTE-enabled device. VoLTE = Voice over LTE (4G). To be able to make a call in one of the 4G coverage areas, you need a VoLTE-enabled device that has been updated with the latest manufacturer’s software. For more information and a list of VoLTE-enabled devices, please head here
List of RCG new cell-sites live from 26 March 2020:
| Site Name | Council Region |
| Kongahu | Buller District |
| Little Wanganui | Buller District |
| Long Range Rd | Central Hawkes Bay District |
| Aramoana | Central Hawkes Bay District |
| Pourerere | Central Hawkes Bay District |
| Outram | Dunedin City |
| Canvastown | Marlborough District |
| Aokautere Valley | Palmerston North City |
| Waitotara | South Taranaki District |
| Lindis Pass East | Waitaki District |
| Minginui | Whakatane District |
| Te Kaha | Opotiki District |
| Frasertown | Wairoa District |
| Ohawini Bay | Whangarei District |
| Lindis Valley | Central Otago District |
