The Internet of Things is front of mind for the Government and business in New Zealand and last week saw the release of a report that saw the Communications Minister, Simon Bridges comment on the Government's role in NZ's IoT future
Fortunately, with the NZ Government investment into the Ultra Fast Broadband Network and the Rural Broadband Initiative we are going to be very well placed to take full advantage of all the changes that the Internet of Things will bring.
In a report out last week it was announced that there could be over $2 billion of economic benefits in the application of the Internet of Things (IoT) across key sectors of the New Zealand economy. The report was commissioned by the New Zealand IoT Alliance, entitled Accelerating a Connected New Zealand.
The Internet of Things (IoT) is a concept that involves connecting devices to the internet, enabling them to ‘talk’ to each other and to people. In the real world this could be anything from moisture sensors on farms and power meters on houses to your fridge telling your phone that you need to buy some milk on the way home.
Accelerating a Connected New Zealand was a report that looks at the current impact of IoT on the NZ economy. It summarises how we compare internationally and the potential benefits from increased deployment of this emerging technology.
The IoT is of course widely supported by the Government and why would it not be with $2 billion of economic benefits!? Speaking last week at an event in Wellington, the Communications Minister Simon Bridges says the research will help industry, government and academics understand the potential of IoT and what it means for Kiwis and New Zealand.
“Given IoT is an emerging technology, there’s still a lot we don’t know. The research tells a really positive story that the benefit of IoT could be far greater to our economy,” says Bridges.
“Emerging technologies also present new challenges and the research identifies some areas we’ll be considering further, such as security and privacy of IoT data."
“The Government has a key role to play in ensuring that New Zealand can take advantage of what IoT has to offer, through our programme of work to improve access to faster broadband for all New Zealanders," adds the Minister.
“Better connectivity means that people and businesses can make the most of emerging technologies such as IoT, increase productivity and competitiveness, and build a foundation for entrepreneurship and continued innovation.”
“New Zealand is known for its pioneering spirit and for encouraging innovation. As this research points out, we’re well prepared – and ready – to take advantage of the opportunities IoT brings.”
In summary Minister Bridges concludes, “I look forward to continuing to work with the IoT Alliance to explore the challenges and benefits of this emerging technology, to ensure we get the best outcomes for New Zealanders.”
Well I don’t know about you, but here at Broadband Compare we are VERY excited about the potential of the Internet of Things and we’re fortunate to have amazing broadband options rolling out across the country to fully take advantage of what it can deliver. Make sure your broadband is up to spec before you start turning your home or business into an army of internet automation. Compare all the best broadband plans from NZ internet providers for free on Broadband Compare.
