Vodafone New Zealand have launched a new initiative for remote communities not already covered by their network nor slated for broadband services under the government's rural broadband program. The Community Cell Site request scheme will select at least two communities each year to investigate the installation of a new mobile cell site.  There will be at least one community in each of the North and South Islands.

Some application criteria will apply. First is that the community have no existing mobile coverage.

Second, a supporting petition signed by residents who desire the service is required.  Vodafone want to discuss innovative ways the community can help itself, for example in assisting with the RMA consents process for the tower and having a willingness to provide access-track maintenance.

Third is that the community must have letters of support from the local MP, local Council or Community Board members, and local iwi (including contact person name and number).

Then there are some practical requirements like a willing land owner for the tower location, proximity to existing mains power supply, line of site options for microwave linking and 4WD vehicle access.

Lastly, the application must describe the positive impact a new cell site will bring to the community.

What will assist communities in their application? Innovative ideas on how sites could be built in a way that reduces costs.

Applications can be made on-line and are open until the 15th December 2011. Vodafone will make a decision on the initial round of applications by 30 January 2012.

This initiative is in addition to Vodafone's contracted requirements under the Rural Broadband Initiative (RBI).  The government announced its plans for the RBI in March 2010, with Vodafone and partner Telecom winning the bidding and being awarded the contract on 20th April 2011.  Since then, the bid winners have held the first of a series of twice-yearly community meetings to garner community input to their planning process.

The government program has two objectives.  The schools objective is to deliver 100 Mbps fibre connections to around 730 rural schools and hospitals.  Provided by Telecom Chorus, this fibre network will also supply the back-haul for the community objective of a minimum of 5Mbps ADSL or wireless broadband to more than 80% of rural homes.

As part of the RBI, Vodafone are upgrading their existing network of 380 cell sites and build 154 new rural towers to provide the necessary coverage and capacity.

Once built, the Vodafone-managed towers will be opened up to competition with other wireless operators able to put their own equipment on the towers. Vodafone will also offer wholesale services to operators enabling them to offer branded services.  The wholesale product will provide for broadband and home phone services.  

For their own rural broadband product, Vodafone will be selling a wireless router which includes a broadband connection, telephone service, and local WiFi and Ethernet networks.  A roof antenna is included for locations that require it.  This product has been trialled by a number of Franklin residents for seven months now and has given a reliable service although speeds are slower than the 5Mbps required under the RBI.  This is expected to improve once Vodafone have completed upgrading local cell sites.

Vodafone wants to hear from communities that believe this service will have a positive impact on the lives of local people.  Rural Connect is here to assist - just call John on 09 237 0456 before the end of November for assistance in getting the ball rolling.