Waitomo District Council submitted its Digital Enablement Plan (DEP), to Government on Friday the 18^th September.

The plan supports Council’s submission to Government to become a digitally well connected community.

Chief Executive Chris Ryan said that it’s taken a lot of time and commitment by a small WDC team to develop the DEP.

“The support and contributions received from our local communities groups and organisation, through the digital workshops was vital”, he said.

“Our goal was to develop a plan to identify and overcome existing barriers, so that residents and businesses have access to the technology to enhance our community’s well-being and business productivity.”

Chris Ryan said that for some members of our community, obtaining access to good quality reliable internet and digital devices can be a significant challenge.

“Council proposes to promote community awareness of the opportunity to use improved internet technologies to break down the existing barriers to digital engagement. This will include co-ordinating events such as technology days and training days.”

“There are already some great computer hubs in Te Kuiti however the plan also calls for the development of digital hubs in other locations in the Waitomo District, so that more residents can have access to good quality, reliable internet access.”

Mr Ryan added that Council will explore the feasibility and cost structure for the introduction of free Wi-Fi commercial zones and in particular how that opportunity can be improved for high volume tourist visitor spots.

“We plan to build better relationships with infrastructure and telecommunication suppliers so that we can become better informed about what is going on in our area regarding broadband and mobile coverage infrastructure construction.  We can then communicate this with residents through our usual communication channels.”

“We also plan to keep business groups well informed and will do this through the district’s established business networks and with key representatives of the rural sector.”

Anyone who wishes to discuss the initiatives of our Digital Enablement Plan, are invited to contact Rachael Laver at Waitomo District Council on (07) 878 0800.