Broadband Providers Strive to Meet High Demands Amidst COVID-19 Situation

New Zealand has reported thirteen new cases of COVID-19 as of August 16, 2020, bringing the number of active cases to 69. These cases are located in Manukau (28), managed isolation and quarantine facilities (20) and Auckland (13). 

The NZ government has provided 1.6 million face masks in Auckland for 125 sectors last Friday. Mandatory mass masking in public is being considered by Health Minister Chris Hipkins as a result of a possible second wave in the country. In the meantime, Health Minister Hipkins has reminded Kiwis about physical distancing and wearing face masks whenever in public, as the source of the outbreak is still being assessed. Hipkins also advised the public to get COVID-19 updates only from trusted sources, to avoid distress. 

Lockdown levels and transport updates

Auckland will be on alert level 3 until the 26th. Starting August 17, public transportation in Auckland will be cut back; while most buses will run normally, school buses won’t be running. You’re also mandated to use the rear door when using the bus. Ferry services are cancelled in Birkenhead, Bayswater, Stanley Bay and Gulf Harbour while Auckland is at alert level 3. You can check the alert level of your community on the Unite Against Covid-19 website. 

For those in Auckland, you can also get transport updates on the Auckland Transport mobile app, which will show the number of people on buses and trains (so that you’ll know if physical distancing is achievable before you travel). Put simply, the app will show you whether or not to go out.

Many companies are migrating online to connect with clients and to continue services. Complying with protocols, operations have limitations in terms of the workforce and mobility; therefore, the online environment becomes the next best alternative. With more and more Kiwis staying at home, the demand for a reliable broadband connection is getting higher.

NZ broadband providers’ response to pandemic

Broadband providers are trying to meet the high demands with a limited workforce. Providers ask the public to be more patient as they strive to meet the high volume of demands. At the same time, providers are making services more accessible and affordable in light of the pandemic. 

Jordan Carter, Chief Executive of InternetNZ, suggested for the government and telecommunication companies to collaborate, so that more homes can stay connected and more employees can work from home. 

Broadband providers are reaching out to their customers; for example, Vodafone has launched Covid-19 Care as a response to the crisis, and have waived disconnection fees. It’s not just Vodafone either; many other broadband providers are cooperating with one another to improve their services during this critical period. Last March, Vodafone NZ, Slingshot, Orcon, Flip, and 2degrees removed data caps on their plans, and many of their new customers are now enjoying this feature.  

If you’re on the hunt for a reliable and affordable broadband connection, we have a list of NZ’s top providers and their plans on our comparison page. You don’t have to worry about getting a good connection, as providers have optimized their services in light of the pandemic. You can always use our comparison tool for free anytime, anywhere. We’re one with you when it comes to getting the best, even at the worst of times.