Our world is changing around us.  On a daily basis we hear of technological developments that will make our lives more prosperous, our businesses more efficient and assure us a richer entertainment experience.  This is the case down on the farm as much as it is in our cities.  What is enabling these changes on the farm, is the explosion of innovative rural technologies.

With the election now a done deal, it is clear to me that the inclusion of every person in the coming digital society is not yet on the agenda of the new government.  Their focus was on broadband infrastructure and the economic advantages that will bring, principally in the areas of health, education and the delivery of government services.  With the provisioning of that infrastructure now in process, they think their job is nearly done.  It is not.

We are on the cusp of major change, a revolution of significant proportions, and one that will impact our daily lives.  It is clear that individually, we either participate in this change, or get left behind.

For five years, representatives from across the telecommunications industry have come together to discuss the issues around rural broadband at the TUANZ Rural Broadband

Symposium.  Telcos, suppliers, user groups and lobbyists talked about the economics which have always been “difficult” and the “leap of faith” benefits.

In previous years, the symposium was about the need for the networks, fibre and wireless.

With those networks now being rolled-out, the discussion last week was around how they would be used.

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.