Connecting Rural New Zealand

In the rolling hills and rugged terrain of New Zealand’s South Island, reliable internet connectivity has long been a challenge – especially for rural communities. But KiwiWifi, a 100% New Zealand-owned Rural Wireless Broadband Provider based in Nelson, is on a mission to change that. With a passion for bridging digital divides, KiwiWifi has built independent, purpose-driven wireless networks that deliver high-speed internet to even the most remote locations in the Nelson and Tasman regions.

New Zealand has made nationwide rural connectivity a priority, aiming to eliminate coverage black spots and enhance digital access for rural communities. The benefits of this investment are far-reaching:

• Boosting precision agriculture and horticulture, enabling farmers to optimize resources and increase productivity
• Improving search and rescue operations in remote areas where reliable communication can be lifesaving
• Supporting the evolution of smart farming technologies, ensuring that farmers can leverage cutting-edge digital tools regardless of location

However, providing high-speed internet to these areas isn’t easy. Harsh landscapes, long distances and limited infrastructure present significant hurdles. KiwiWifi needed a solution that could withstand New Zealand’s tough conditions while delivering uncompromising performance.

After evaluating various options, KiwiWifi turned to RACOM’s RAy Microwave Links – a decision that would redefine their network capabilities. Renowned for their reliability in extreme conditions, RAy links proved to be the ideal choice to overcome New Zealand’s rugged topography.

Through Holland Communications, RACOM’s local partner, KiwiWifi gained access to:

• High-performance RAy microwave links, ensuring stable, high-speed connectivity
• Pre- and post-sales technical support, ensuring a seamless deployment process
• A scalable, future-proof solution that could expand alongside their growing network

By 2023, KiwiWifi had successfully deployed four RAy3 links operating in the 18 GHz band, efficiently overcoming challenging terrain and environmental conditions. The installation process was straightforward and the operational performance surpassed expectations. Impressed by the system’s reliability and outstanding results, KiwiWifi has since invested in additional RACOM equipment to support ongoing network expansion efforts – not only within the 18 GHz frequency range but also extending into the 11 GHz band. Furthermore, Holland Communications is actively conducting trials of our new 80 GHz link, aiming to enhance and expand RACOM’s RAy portfolio in New Zealand.

But they’re not alone in recognizing the value of RACOM’s technology. Several other Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) across New Zealand – including those in Otago, Marlborough and Wairarapa – have also adopted RACOM microwave links through Holland Communications.

KiwiWifi’s deployment of RACOM RAy links marks a significant step forward in New Zealand’s rural connectivity efforts. With cutting-edge wireless infrastructure in place, farmers, businesses, emergency responders and many others in remote areas now have access to the fast, reliable internet they need.

For KiwiWifi, this is just the beginning. As they continue expanding their network, one thing is clear – no matter how tough the terrain, connectivity is within reach.