What Are My Best Options for Rural Broadband?

If you live outside the main towns and cities, and reside in the countryside, it’s likely that you’ll need rural broadband to get connected to the internet. There are a number of different broadband options available for those living rurally, depending on where you are located and how far you are away from the cabinet.

Let’s look at what your best options are for rural broadband, and how you can go about getting connected.

Options for connecting to rural broadband

At the moment, there are three main ways to get broadband in rural areas: ADSL, VDSL and fibre. While not all broadband providers provide services to rural areas, there are some that specifically focus on rural connections - such as Blue Door, Lightwire, Unifone, WizWireless, and Farmside.

Let’s break down the three main options:

ADSL rural broadband 

There are two different types of ADSL speeds - ADSL and ADSL2+. Both of these internet connections are easy to install, and are generally suited for everyday internet usage. Running through the copper network, ADSL is the slowest type of broadband, whereas ADSL2+ can deliver speeds of up to 24Mbps. 

VDSL rural broadband

VDSL is suitable for most rural family homes, and can deliver speeds of up to 70Mbps - making it the better option when compared to ADSL. Although it uses the same copper network as ADSL, the speeds are much faster and have greater capacity. 

Fibre rural broadband

Currently the fastest internet connection in New Zealand, fibre broadband offers ultra fast speeds, along with a secure and reliable connection. Compared to ADSL and VDSL connections, rural fibre broadband is lightyears ahead in terms of speed.

Unfortunately, not every rural property has access to a fibre connection. To find out if you can get fibre in your area, head on over to the fibre broadband checker and type in your address. 

What is needed to get connected to rural broadband?

Although most broadband providers will take care of everything when installing your rural internet connection, some may ask you to provide them with the following:

• A working 240v power outlet
• A surge protected multi-plug outlet box
• An antenna pole
• A network card
• Property owner’s consent for the installation

Generally, providers will send out a technician to your home before any installation work begins, so that they can undergo a presale site inspection. Through this, they can inform you of what’s involved in the process and any additional costs you may be looking at. 

Where can I find the best rural broadband deals?

Finding a great deal from the top rural broadband providers has never been easier with glimp! Simply type your address into our comparison tool, and we’ll bring up all the deals available in your area. To help you make the right decision, we’ll list the results according to best deals and best value for money.