Christchurch

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Internet Services

Information about broadband and other internet connectivity options in the city.

Sections

1. Overview of Internet Services in Christchurch

Christchurch, as one of New Zealandโ€™s largest cities, has a well-developed internet infrastructure. The city benefits from the Ultra-Fast Broadband (UFB) initiative, a government-led program to provide high-speed fiber-optic internet to 87% of New Zealanders. This means that most areas in Christchurch have access to fiber internet, which is the fastest and most reliable connection type. Other options like ADSL, VDSL, and wireless broadband are also available, particularly in areas where fiber is not yet accessible.

2. Types of Internet Connections Available

Here are the main types of internet connections you can choose from in Christchurch:

a. Fiber Internet

  • Speed: Up to 1 Gbps (Gigabit per second) or higher in some cases.
  • Availability: Widely available in urban and suburban Christchurch.
  • Best For: Streaming, gaming, remote work, and households with multiple users.
  • Providers: Most major ISPs offer fiber plans.

b. VDSL (Very High-Speed Digital Subscriber Line)

  • Speed: Up to 70 Mbps (faster than ADSL but slower than fiber).
  • Availability: Available in areas where fiber is not yet installed.
  • Best For: Moderate internet users who donโ€™t need ultra-high speeds.

c. ADSL (Asymmetric Digital Subscriber Line)

  • Speed: Up to 24 Mbps (slower than VDSL and fiber).
  • Availability: Available in most areas but being phased out in favor of fiber.
  • Best For: Light internet users or areas with no other options.

d. Wireless Broadband

  • Speed: Varies depending on the provider and plan (typically 4G or 5G speeds).
  • Availability: Ideal for rural or remote areas where wired connections are not feasible.
  • Best For: Temporary setups, rural areas, or users who donโ€™t want a fixed-line connection.

e. Mobile Data (4G/5G)

  • Speed: 4G speeds range from 20-100 Mbps; 5G can exceed 1 Gbps.
  • Availability: 4G is widely available; 5G is expanding in Christchurch.
  • Best For: On-the-go internet or as a backup to a fixed connection.

3. Major Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in Christchurch

Several ISPs operate in Christchurch, offering a range of plans and services. Here are the most prominent ones:

a. Spark

  • Connection Types: Fiber, VDSL, ADSL, Wireless Broadband, Mobile Data.
  • Typical Plans:
    • Fiber 300 Mbps: NZD 89/month.
    • Unlimited Wireless Broadband: NZD 85/month.
  • Extras: Free modem with some plans, Spark Sport streaming discounts, and mobile bundles.

b. Vodafone (Now One NZ)

  • Connection Types: Fiber, VDSL, ADSL, Wireless Broadband, Mobile Data.
  • Typical Plans:
    • Fiber 300 Mbps: NZD 85/month.
    • 5G Wireless Broadband: NZD 79/month.
  • Extras: Discounts for mobile and broadband bundles, free installation for some plans.

c. 2degrees

  • Connection Types: Fiber, VDSL, ADSL, Wireless Broadband.
  • Typical Plans:
    • Fiber 900 Mbps: NZD 95/month.
    • Unlimited Wireless Broadband: NZD 85/month.
  • Extras: Free modem and installation on 12-month contracts, discounts for mobile customers.

d. Orcon

  • Connection Types: Fiber, VDSL, ADSL.
  • Typical Plans:
    • Fiber 300 Mbps: NZD 84.95/month.
    • Fiber 900 Mbps: NZD 94.95/month.
  • Extras: Free modem and installation on 12-month contracts, power and broadband bundle discounts.

e. MyRepublic

  • Connection Types: Fiber, VDSL.
  • Typical Plans:
    • Fiber 300 Mbps: NZD 79/month.
    • Fiber 1 Gbps: NZD 99/month.
  • Extras: Gaming-optimized plans, no data caps.

f. Skinny

  • Connection Types: Fiber, Wireless Broadband.
  • Typical Plans:
    • Fiber 300 Mbps: NZD 73/month.
    • Wireless Broadband: NZD 55/month.
  • Extras: Prepaid plans, no contracts, affordable pricing.

g. Trustpower

  • Connection Types: Fiber, VDSL, ADSL.
  • Typical Plans:
    • Fiber 300 Mbps: NZD 89/month.
  • Extras: Bundle discounts with electricity and gas services.

4. Typical Costs

  • Fiber Plans: NZD 70โ€“100/month for unlimited data, depending on speed.
  • VDSL/ADSL Plans: NZD 60โ€“80/month for unlimited data.
  • Wireless Broadband: NZD 55โ€“85/month for unlimited data.
  • Mobile Data: NZD 20โ€“80/month, depending on data caps and speed.

5. Installation and Setup Procedures

a. Fiber Installation

  • Process:
    1. Check availability: Use the ISPโ€™s website or the governmentโ€™s broadband map to confirm fiber availability at your address.
    2. Sign up: Choose a plan and sign a contract (usually 12 or 24 months for free installation).
    3. Installation: A technician will visit your property to install the fiber connection. This may involve running cables and installing an Optical Network Terminal (ONT) inside your home.
  • Cost: Free for most plans with a contract; otherwise, installation costs can range from NZD 150โ€“300.

b. VDSL/ADSL Installation

  • Process:
    1. Sign up with an ISP.
    2. Receive a modem (usually provided for free or at a small cost).
    3. Self-installation: Plug the modem into your phone line and follow the setup instructions.
  • Cost: Usually free or minimal.

c. Wireless Broadband Setup

  • Process:
    1. Sign up with an ISP.
    2. Receive a wireless modem.
    3. Plug in the modem and connect to the network.
  • Cost: Free or minimal.

6. Local Considerations for Christchurch

  • Fiber Coverage: While fiber is widely available in Christchurch, some older or rural areas may still rely on VDSL, ADSL, or wireless broadband. Always check availability for your specific address.
  • Power Outages: Fiber connections require power to operate. Consider having a backup like mobile data or a UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) for emergencies.
  • Weather Impact: Wireless broadband can be affected by severe weather, though this is rare.
  • Contracts: Many ISPs offer discounts or free installation for 12- or 24-month contracts. However, if youโ€™re renting or staying short-term, look for no-contract or prepaid options (e.g., Skinny).
  • Bundles: Many ISPs offer discounts if you bundle broadband with mobile, electricity, or gas services. This can be a cost-effective option.

7. Tips for Choosing the Right Plan

  • For Heavy Users: Opt for fiber plans with speeds of 300 Mbps or higher.
  • For Light Users: Consider wireless broadband or lower-speed fiber plans.
  • For Short-Term Stays: Look for no-contract options like Skinny or prepaid plans.
  • For Rural Areas: Wireless broadband or satellite internet may be your best options.

8. Useful Resources

  • Broadband Map: www.broadbandmap.nz โ€“ Check internet availability at your address.
  • Consumer NZ: www.consumer.org.nz โ€“ Compare ISPs and plans.
  • ISP Websites: Visit individual ISP websites for the latest deals and promotions.

By understanding the options and local nuances, you can easily find an internet plan in Christchurch that suits your needs and budget. Let me know if you need further assistance!