A push for cheaper internet plans and higher data allowances is building momentum in Reporoa.
Last year Rachel Herbert and her family moved out of Taupō to the rural community, discovering there were no fibre or copper internet cables available and "bugger all internet providers".
Herbert tried one provider but found the connection was much slower than she expected, and her sons were chewing through the data playing games on the internet.
"We have been paying way more than we used to for much less internet usage."
She contacted the rural internet provider Lightwire through Facebook to see if it could start setting up connections in Reporoa.
"They gave me a call and said they might be able to make it happen. They sent someone out to look at where we are and at a couple of sites for towers."
For the past six weeks, Lightwire has been gathering interest from Reporoa residents with an internet form.
More than 50 people have registered through it, enough for Lightwire to investigate the idea further.
Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) such as Lightwire connect to a fibre optic link at a central point, then install a series of fixed wireless receivers and transmitters on hilltops or high buildings, and bounce the wireless signal across to users in a rural area.
A Lightwire technician working on an internet tower. Photo/Supplied
Lightwire uses this method in rural areas in the Bay of Plenty and Waikato regions.
"We try to go to the areas that are untouched," marketing head Briana Christey said.
Last week company representatives made a presentation to the Mihi School Board of Trustees about its proposals.
The building plan to set up the internet would involve connecting Mihi School to fibre with government funding.
Mihi School confirmed the proposal was under consideration.
Lightwire is also seeking permission to build at least one tower on a hill in the area, on private property.
"A couple of different sites would be ideal for the towers to get as much coverage as possible," Christey said.
She said for Lightwire it costs between $10,000 to $15,000 to set up a new connection like the one proposed in Reporoa.
"It depends on the hardware the team thinks will provide the best service, and whether solar or mains power is needed."
The registration form for the Reporoa Lightwire proposal has been shared on social media by the Wai/Bop Regional Young Farmers page, Reporoa Young Farmers and the Waikato Hauraki Coromandel Rural Support Trust to help gather support.
Waikato Hauraki Coromandel Trust Co-ordinator Wanda Leadbeater said: "Reliable hi-speed internet for rural areas has many positive impacts; educational, economic and social advantages to rural businesses and communities".
"An affordable service is essential to ensure it is accessible for everyone, therefore, helping to reduce feelings of isolation in remote areas."
Wireless Nation also provides rural internet in the Reporoa area.
The company mainly uses infrastructure from other providers rather than through building its own towers the way Lightwire does, and in Reporoa it supplies customers with 3G and 4G internet through the use of a Vodafone tower.
