Connectivity must be treated as essential infrastructure to close Aotearoa’s digital divide, says TUANZ

Aotearoa New Zealand has successfully built one of the world’s leading connectivity networks, with 87% of New Zealanders now having access to ultra-fast fibre broadband. However, the benefits of that investment are not being shared equally, and the final barriers to digital inclusion must now be addressed. 

Today, as the final paper in its six-week 2026 policy position series, the Tech Users Association of New Zealand (TUANZ) has released its Access and Inclusion position paper, calling for a coordinated national approach to ensure every New Zealander can participate in an increasingly digital society.  At the same time the summary report from the recent Connecting Aotearoa Summit is released in support of this paper.

TUANZ Chief Executive Craig Young said New Zealand’s next challenge is no longer simply building connectivity, but ensuring everyone can access, afford and benefit from it. 

“Over the last two decades, New Zealand has made significant progress in building world-class digital infrastructure. The opportunity now is to ensure no community is left behind.”

“Digital connectivity is no longer a luxury. It underpins education, healthcare, employment, business, emergency response and participation in modern society. If we want a more productive, resilient and inclusive New Zealand, we need to treat connectivity as essential infrastructure.”

Despite strong national coverage, significant gaps remain. Around one in ten households still do not have internet access at home, with Māori, Pasifika, disabled people and low-income households disproportionately affected. Rural communities also continue to face higher costs and more limited connectivity options than their urban counterparts.

The paper also highlights the growing importance of network resilience, particularly in light of recent severe weather events and natural disasters that have demonstrated the critical role connectivity plays during emergencies.

To address these challenges, TUANZ is calling for action across four key areas:

Recognise connectivity as core infrastructure: Formally treat connectivity as equal to electricity or water. This requires prioritising resilience, equity, and broader socio-economic benefits over simple commercial returns, alongside continued Government investment to connect the final unserved populations.

Establish a National Connectivity and Resilience Register: Collaborate with the industry to develop a register linking every address to its connection type and resilience profile to ensure emergency aid is directed properly during crises and to identify “not-spots” for targeted investment.

Co-design “Affordable Connectivity” solutions: The Government, industry, and community should work together to provide meaningful digital access for low-income households, which could include subsidised home and mobile data, and a bulk funding model for devices and wrap-around skills support.

Mandate “Inclusive by Design” for Digital Public Services: Ensure all new government digital implementations, such as Digital Identity, address the concerns of those hesitant to trust technology by adopting a Code of Practice for Inclusive Use and maintaining alternative, non-digital pathways.

Young said the choices made this decade will help determine whether New Zealand fully realises the benefits of its digital infrastructure investments.

“Closing the digital divide is about more than technology. It’s about ensuring every New Zealander has the opportunity to participate, contribute and thrive. By embedding inclusion, affordability and resilience into our approach today, we can create a stronger and more connected Aotearoa for generations to come.”