6.3.7 Broadband opportunities

Live Streaming and On-demand Programmes via Broadband

A current broadband option is to view digital television on the internet using the cable that already connects the telephone to the exchange network. Programming includes live streaming such as the Parliament TV programme, and on-demand programmes. This is currently a limited option for viewers because of the variable quality (dependent on the connection speed and traffic on the overall connection to the programme source), limited range of material offered, and cost of broadband. It is anticipated; however, that options for internet transmission of ‘broadcast content’ will be considerably enhanced as access to high speed broadband is rolled out across the country.

Internet Protocol Television

One possibility not yet available in New Zealand is Internet protocol television (IPTV) which is delivered to a television set via a broadband connection. The government’s broadband investment plan will assist the technical possibility of introducing IPTV by bringing an ultra-fast network via fibre-to-the-home. This is planned to reach 75 per cent of homes and will be rolled out over ten years. Wireless technology is being explored as an option to extend ultra-fast broadband to communities outside this 75 percent.

IPTV will be more feasible as high speed broadband coverage is improved.

Question 34

Is broadband a feasible delivery option for regional services?

Why or why not?

Question 35

How would you manage the potential time gap between DSO and full roll-out of ultra-fast broadband and/or regional broadband infrastructure?