The MBNZ programme monitors and reports on broadband performance across New Zealand and is a key part of our work to meet our obligations under s9A of the Telecommunications Act. The programme uses an independent testing provider to test broadband providers across copper, Fibre and Fixed Wireless technologies and publishes results for download and upload speeds, latency, video streaming, disconnections and online gaming performance.

The MBNZ programme is designed to provide consumers with independent information on broadband performance across different providers, plans, and technologies, to help them choose the best broadband for them.

We sought stakeholder and consumer views to help inform our monitoring of broadband to ensure the information we provide helps consumers choose a service that delivers the experience they expect. It also ensures our monitoring evolves to reflect the changing mix of technologies and services.

The review found the programme had achieved its objectives but identified some limitations that we seek to address in the next phase of the programme.

As our contract for the existing testing and reporting provider (SamKnows) was due to expire in September 2022, we issued a request for proposals (RFP) seeking broadband testing and reporting services to continue the MBNZ programme. You can find the RFP here.

Responses to our RFP were evaluated and SamKnows Limited has been appointed to deliver the independent testing and reporting services for the MBNZ programme for the next 3 years.

The new phase of the programme will broaden the technologies and geographies in scope, with particular emphasis on capturing 5G Fixed Wireless and satellite technologies. We will improve our picture of rural performance by bringing smaller RSPs into the programme, particularly those who offer Fixed Wireless (including 5G), satellite technologies and those with a rural customer base.

Further information on the programme can be found here.

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