Spark turns on 4G across Northland destinations in time for Christmas

In anticipation of an increase in data use this summer, Spark has switched on 4G mobile service in Kaeo, Helena Bay, Pangaru and Kawakawa in the Northland region, making it even easier for Kiwis to share their summer adventures via Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat.

Northland has a combination of breath-taking landscapes, vast beaches, hidden coves and native forests making Northland one of New Zealand's most holiday friendly spots. The addition of these sites will increase mobile capacity and coverage at these popular Northland holiday destinations.

Spark’s General Manager of Networks, Colin Brown, says our teams work hard to ensure coverage and capacity is available in the places Kiwis spend their Summers.

“We want people to stay connected with their families and friends throughout the holiday season, no matter where they decide to spend their time.

“The huge increases in data use over the summer period last year shows there’s strong demand for these services in the Northland region, and Spark’s network upgrades will keep people connected to friends and family, giving them the ability to share their amazing Summer experiences.” says Brown.

Nationwide upgrades

To ensure customers right across the country can stay connected throughout the busy summer months Spark has invested a significant amount in upgrading its mobile network in time for Christmas to cater for the expected increase in demand for mobile data.

In the last three months Spark has extended 4.5G to more than 30 locations, expanded capacity on more than 100 sites and built new sites in popular holiday locations such as Helena Bay, Kaeo, Mangawhai Heads, Pakiri Beach, Raglan, Waikawa and Te Anau.

Spark is also deploying transportable sites to popular locations across the country such as Whitianga, Mangawhai, Wanaka and Mahia Peninsula to improve capacity in the areas that see huge increases in visitors.

ENDS

Notes to the editor:

Images of the Kaeo site can be found here.

4G
Customers are able to access 4G on the 700MHz spectrum by using a 700-capable mobile device. For more information about 4G coverage in their area customers can go to http://www.spark.co.nz/coverage

Wireless Broadband
Wireless Broadband is a ‘plug and play’ solution using the 4G network to provide a fast broadband service to customers. Customers can check their range of 4G coverage over 700MHz on the Spark website to see whether they are in an area suitable for Wireless Broadband.