New Zealand internet service provider Wireless Nation, a Kiwi affiliate of Optus Satellite, has signed a services agreement with Mobile Health NZ to broadcast health education sessions using video conferencing from their satellite van throughout rural areas.
Terms of the deal see the Kiwi ISP provide services on a ‘use as’ required basis over a 24-month period, utilising an auto-pointing satellite dish on the roof of the van.
“Optus is pleased to be able to facilitate Wireless Nation’s delivery of services to its rural based customers,” says Paul Sheridan, Vice President, Optus Satellite.
“We know the importance that businesses and consumers place on access to internet and telecommunications services, particularly when geography can inhibit access to those services.”
Founded in 2005 by Technical Director Tom Linn in response to the larger ISPs unwillingness to provide services to New Zealand’s rural sector. after securing initial funding, Wireless Nation began delivering satellite broadband to rural customers in late 2006.
Fast forward ten years and Wireless Nation and Optus Satellite continue to work closely across the country, having signed a new three-year wholesale agreement in 2014, enabling Wireless Nation to deliver satellite broadband services to consumer, business and enterprise customers nationwide.
The Wireless Nation agreement also boosts Optus’ existing presence in New Zealand, which primarily covers pay TV and free-to-air service providers, and enables it to deliver services to new and existing residential, small business, farming and corporate and government customers across the country.
“Together with Optus, we’re pleased to be able to provide the connectivity required for such an important part of Mobile Health’s business,” adds Miro Sudzum, Marketing Manager, Wireless Nation.
“With a simple press of a button, Mobile Health is now able to provide educational series through videoconferencing no matter where they are in New Zealand.
“This is another step in connecting rural with urban New Zealand.”
Optus Satellite has the largest fleet of satellites servicing Australia and New Zealand, with six satellites currently in geostationary orbit - the most recent satellite to launch was Optus 10, in September 2014.
“Optus Satellite continues to strengthen its leadership position as a provider of choice with key enterprise and government organisations, both domestically and in New Zealand including Wireless Nation,” Sheridan adds.
In New Zealand, Optus Satellite also enables broadcast services for Sky New Zealand and Kordia while in Australia, the company works with some of the leading mining and resource companies in the most remote parts of the country.
