Broadband reaches 891,000 subscribers

Statistics New Zealand has reported that the number of broadband subscriber numbers in New Zealand has reached 891,000.

The Internet Service Provider Survey provides information on the total number and nature of subscribers who use New Zealand-based Internet service providers (ISPs) to connect either permanently or regularly to the Internet. This information allows a measurement of the global connectivity of New Zealanders, which is regarded as an important determinant in accelerating economic growth. A core set of official statistics on Internet service provision results from this survey. This helps individuals, communities, businesses and government to understand how information and communication technology is changing the economy and society.

In the six months to 31 March 2008:

• The total number of subscribers continued to increase, with over 1.5 million Internet users now in New Zealand.
• The 891,000 non-analog (broadband) subscribers were 59.2 percent of all subscribers.
• The most common download speed was between 2Mbps and 10Mbps.
• The number of ISPs operating in New Zealand increased 5 percent to 60 enterprises