Rural communities must be supported to transition off copper

Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) acknowledges the Commerce Commission’s recommendation to deregulate the copper network but insists rural communities need to be supported through the transition.

“Our members understand and accept the reasoning behind the move away from copper,” says Sandra Matthews, Rural Women New Zealand National President. “However, were main concerned about the consequences for rural people, particularly those without access to alternative technologies, with medical needs, or for whom digital literacy remains a barrier.”

RWNZ says that as copper services are withdrawn, those who continue to rely on them risk facing rising costs as the remaining network becomes more expensive to maintain.

“For many rural families and older residents, copper is not just a communications service, it’s their lifeline,” Matthews says.

“To ensure a successful transition for rural users away from copper, Chorus needs to commit to a well-resourced, transparent public education campaign. This will help users understand their options, support them in moving to new technologies, and ensure they are aware of the limitations of new technologies, such as the possible loss of service during power outages.”

“It is critical that this campaign is tailored to rural communities, recognising the realities of patchy mobile coverage, lack of fibre access, and the additional challenges of distance and isolation.”

RWNZ’s submission on the Commerce Commission’s original proposal highlighted these risks, and echoed the concerns raised by groups such as TUANZ.

“We must ensure that rural communities are supported as the inevitable march of new technologies continues,” says Matthews. “Connectivity is no longer a luxury, it is fundamental to the livelihoods, safety and personal wellbeing of all New Zealanders.”