Rural Digital Connectivity Survey results

Published on 16 December 2022

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We recently surveyed the rural residents of Upper Hutt about their digital connectivity. A total of 401 responses were received.

This survey revealed a clear need for improved digital connections in rural areas of Upper Hutt: 

  • 89.5% of respondents indicated they are not satisfied with the internet/phone services available at their homes.  

  • The biggest pain points revealed are lag/speed, availability of better technology and support and reliability (outages).  

  • For those without fibre broadband, 98.4% said it was because it is not available in their area.  

So, what’s happened since? 

  • In September, while this survey was being carried out, the Hon. Chris Hipkins, Member of Parliament for Remutaka wrote to Hon. Dr David Clark, Minister for the Digital Economy and Communications regarding the roll-out of Ultra-Fast broadband around Whiteman’s Valley and Mangaroa Valley in the Remutaka electorate. It can be viewed here: [City Services Agenda p 64].  

  • In November, the results of the survey were shared with Upper Hutt Mayor and Councillors at the City Services Committee Meeting who continue to advocate for improved services in Upper Hutt [City Services Agenda p 3]. 

  • In December, the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment released its statement of intent on Lifting Connectivity in Aotearoa. This seeks further progress towards world-class telecommunications and ambitions to improve access to connectivity infrastructure, particularly for rural and remote communities. 

Improved connectivity in Upper Hutt’s rural areas remains a focus for Council and we’ll keep you updated as news comes to hand. 

Please get in touch with us at askus@uhcc.govt.nz if you have any questions. 

 

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