Kiwis, Aussies, Koreans talk broadband

New Zealand, Australian and Korean officials will meet in Auckland today to discuss broadband infrastructure.

The Korea, Australia and New Zealand (KANZ) Broadband Summit includes business leaders and government officials from the three countries.

They will discuss research and commercial developments in digital applications and content and broadband infrastructure, Communications and Information Technology Minister Steven Joyce said.

"The summit provides an opportunity to discuss shared goals, hear from companies that are leading the way in digital content, technology and services, and to learn from policy agencies about the development of broadband infrastructure, telecommunications and the digital economy."

In a speech to the summit Mr Joyce said broadband investment was critical to achieving economic growth.

The Government believed broadband was key to innovation, efficiency and quality in New Zealand's important agricultural industries.

"Because of the importance of our agriculture sector and our rural economies, getting fast broadband to the 25 percent of New Zealanders living outside of urban areas is a high priority."

It was expected to cost $300 million, he said.

To gain full advantage fibre networks alone were not enough, Mr Joyce said.

The Government must "ensure that we are equipped to make effective use of it" through education and integrated services.

- NZPA