Citylink, the company that runs Wellington's free council-backed Wi-Fi service, cbdfree, hopes to entice more paying customers on to its overlapping paid WiFi network by making it faster, "less clunky" and more convenient.

Chief operating officer Brian Phillips said the "premium" network, previously called CafeNet but now to be renamed CityFi, was nine years old and had "not had a lot of love in a wee while".

CityLink has changed the service so casual customers can easily log on after paying by credit card or with a token without having to key in a username or password.

The service costs $3 an hour or $10 a day.

A "Pro" service is also now available for people who want their computers or smartphones to automatically log on to the network.

CityFi is being upgraded to the latest WiFi technology standards and Phillips said CityLink, a subsidiary of NZX-listed TeamTalk, was keen to extend its reach both within Wellington and to other major cities.

The move did not mean CityLink was reducing its commitment to the cbdfree service, which notched up its millionth internet session in May, he said.

The free network covers Wellington's "golden mile" from Westpac Stadium to Courtenay Place, and Phillips said CityLink would be keen to extend that service if more council funds became available.

CityFi is now available in more indoor areas, such as cafes and conference centres.

- © Fairfax NZ News

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