For years, rural communities across the Rangitikei and Manawatū have lived in a kind of digital exile with slow unreliable Internet connections making modern digital life feel out of reach.
But that’s changing fast, thanks to the rise of low-earth orbit (LEO) satellite internet services like Starlink.
Previous older satellite systems had slow speeds, patchy coverage and expensive monthly fees as they relied on a few distant satellites that never moved from their place in the sky, for example Sky TV and Freeview Satellite. By comparison LEO networks use thousands of fast-moving satellites orbiting closer to Earth, resulting in data speeds that rival fibre and coverage that reaches even the most remote paddocks!
That being said though, some areas may face signal interruptions due to terrain or satellite density, however, satellite technology and coverage are improving all the time.
With any new technology, installation costs can be expensive, for example, Starlink’s hardware is around $500–$800, depending on what specials / discounts are available at the time of purchase; a professional StarLink installer is recommended to mount the satellite dish on your roof and align it correctly; in addition to a monthly subscription fee.
Despite the costs, for many rural residents StarLink is the first real alternative, and a lifeline out of digital isolation.
With Chorus gradually shutting down the old copper network over the next few years, satellite services like StarLink, and in limited areas Inspire.Net’s Wireless Service, will for the foreseeable future be the only Internet options rural communities in the Rangitikei and Manawatū districts will have. If you live in a rural area, satellite internet is a great option to consider. It’s not just about faster Netflix, it’s about unlocking digital equity for every business and household, no matter the postcode.
If you would like to discuss your options or would like a satellite connection installed at your property, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.