Improving digital connectivity in Central Otago
Request for Information (RFI)
Digital connectivity is an essential enabler of economic development, community wellbeing, and the delivery of public services.
Central Otago is one of New Zealand's fastest-growing districts, with increasing demand for reliable, resilient and high-performing digital connectivity to support its communities, businesses and public services. However, coverage, capacity and service resilience vary significantly across the district particularly in rural areas.
What is an RFI?
A Request for Information (RFI) is a formal request from an agency asking suppliers for information about the type of goods or services currently available for a possible procurement, and the number and type of suppliers who are active in the area of interest. An RFI is not used to select or shortlist suppliers.
What is CODC looking to understand from this RFI?
Central Otago District Council (CODC) recognises that improving digital connectivity across the district will require collaboration between multiple organisations and that there is unlikely to be a single solution or provider.
This Request for Information (RFI) is intended to start a conversation with organisations that are interested in providing, enabling or investing in digital connectivity infrastructure and services. The areas of interest identified in the RFI are intended to guide respondents and are not exhaustive.
We hope to receive ideas, insights and opportunities that extend beyond the specific topics identified in the RFI and encourage respondents to think broadly about how digital connectivity outcomes could be improved across Central Otago and the wider region.
We recognise that no single organisation is likely to meet all of the district's connectivity needs. Instead, future solutions are expected to involve complementary services delivered by multiple providers working together.
CODC is seeking to better understand the opportunities to improve digital connectivity in both urban and rural communities, the challenges to expanding services, and the factors that influence investment decisions through a Request For Information (RFI).
This includes gaining an understanding of:
- Potential partnerships
- Technology options including emerging technologies
- Infrastructure requirements and dependencies
- Potential role of Council
- Future outlook and opportunities
Respondents may include:
- telecommunications providers (wireless network providers, mobile network operators, satellite service providers)
- fibre infrastructure owners and operators
- technology vendors, including providers, resellers, and system integrators of fixed wireless, fibre optic, satellite, and other technologies or services that support the delivery of digital connectivity
- resellers of satellite telecommunication services
- utility and infrastructure owners and investors
- industry bodies, community organisations and any other organisation with relevant experience, ideas or insights.
Responses to the RFI are due by: Friday 11 September 2026.
Any updates to RFI will be made via GETs.
The RFI can be accessed at: GETS | Central Otago District Council - Improving Digital Connectivity in Central Otago
Background
Digital connectivity has long been an issue in Central Otago.
CODC has supported improved levels of digital connectivity often through access to land for telecommunications infrastructure, supporting digital enablement of businesses, supporting applications to Rural Broadband Initiatives (RBI), making Wi-Fi available in public spaces, aggregating community demand for improved services and connecting them with solutions.
In 2023 CODC commissioned a report into understanding the level of digital connectivity, a minimum level of service required, and potential solutions for the district. A copy of the report can be found HERE.
Technology, its adoption, and user demand has continued to evolve since the report was authored. Through this RFI, we welcome current information on connectivity needs, available solutions and opportunities to support improved digital connectivity across the district.
Contact
Nick Lanham
Economic Development Manager
Central Otago District Council
