More free Wi-Fi gives users access for longer

HOTSPOT: Free internet use is a boon to visitors.PHOTO/FILE A-HBT1425493

An internet services company is expanding the amount of free internet it provides to the Wanganui district.

Internet users can now access 1GB of free Wi-Fi per month at hotspots from Inspire Net.

Inspire Net, which is regionally based, has worked with the Whanganui Digital Leaders Forum to provide free data to our district through a variety of hotspots since 2013.

Previously it offered 100MB of free data per device, per month.

With 1GB of data, users can send approximately six million text messages using a data service such as iMessage, 500,000 emails, 1000 photos or one full-length movie. Wanganui Mayor Annette Main is "delighted" with Inspire Net's announcement.

"Not only is Inspire Net an innovative business, but it is also giving back to its community," she said.

"The increased free data plans will allow people who don't have data at home to access the internet when they are out and about in order to keep up to date with information, pay bills and keep in touch with family and friends.

"Visitors to Wanganui will be able to use maps, post photos of our beautiful district to social media and browse for places to eat and drink, visit or stay.

"The increased data was available during the Masters Games so visiting and local sportspeople could tell the world how great Wanganui and the Games were."

Inspire Net managing director James Watts, says if 1GB is not enough Wi-Fi data, users can buy a bigger plan.

"We try to ensure our plans are really affordable and meet our customers' needs and we are always looking for new things to try.

"As a privately owned business we are able to be really nimble and innovative in our cutting edge approach.

"We also have a strong community focus which adds value, not only to the community but also to our model of business."

Inspire Net free Wi-Fi customers who pay for monthly or yearly plans will automatically receive additional data for no extra cost on any existing plans purchased. To access Inspire Net's free data, locate the Wi-Fi option in your smartphone or tablet settings, select 'inspirefreewifi' and follow the instructions.