An abundance of free wifi networks have sprung up in the Southern Lakes as the busy holiday season looms.

Telecom has rolled out a trial of 10 free wifi hotspots in Queenstown, Wanaka and Lake Hawea.

Tourism Association New Zealand chief executive Martin Snedden has welcomed the installation of 120 free wifi hotspots at 43 popular holiday destinations, including Queenstown and Wanaka, during summer.

"We fully support this Telecom trial because it will help improve the holiday experiences of both New Zealanders and our international visitors.

"More and more travellers are taking their mobile devices on holiday with them, to stay in touch with family and friends, and share their holiday experiences. Personal stories about great travel experiences are incredibly important in marketing New Zealand as a visitor destination, and free wifi will encourage more people to share their holiday activities immediately."

Anyone can sign up for the service provided they own a New Zealand mobile phone that can receive text messages.

In Queenstown, free access to internet services is available in Shotover St at the corner of Brecon St, two spots on the opposite sides of Frankton Rd and Stanley St, Rees St, the corner of Shotover and Athol streets, Beach St and the corner of Stanley and Ballarat streets.

In Wanaka, wifi is available at the corner of Helwick and Dunmore streets and in Lake Hawea at the corner of Capell Ave and Parry Cres.

- © Fairfax NZ News