Tuatahi & Ventia sign NZD $110 million fibre network deal

Tuatahi First Fibre has signed a new agreement with Ventia, appointing the company as its primary partner for service delivery across its fibre broadband network.

The agreement, which has an initial five-year term and is valued at more than NZD $110 million, builds upon a partnership between the two companies that dates back to 2011. Ventia will deliver network build, customer connections, and maintenance activities, supporting Tuatahi's growing network across several key regions in New Zealand.

Extending a longstanding partnership

Ventia brings significant experience to its role, providing services that include design, build, and maintenance, as well as reactive support, field service supervision, and project management. The expanded arrangement covers fibre network operations in areas served by Tuatahi, which operates the second-largest fibre network in New Zealand, reaching over 254,000 households and businesses.

According to John Hanna, Chief Executive Officer of Tuatahi First Fibre, the new agreement is a significant step in continuing to meet increasing demand for fibre broadband and delivering service expectations to both retailers and consumers.

"We've built a strong and trusted relationship with Ventia over the past 14 years, and this new agreement is a critical step in our ongoing commitment to delivering excellent service to fibre broadband retailers and consumers," Mr Hanna said.

He also commented on the partnership's ability to scale to the demands of New Zealand's digital economy and sustain a high standard of network performance. "As demand for reliable, high-speed broadband continues to grow, we're confident this partnership will help us scale effectively, respond quickly, and maintain high performance across our network – connecting more New Zealanders to world-class fibre broadband."

Ventia's role in supporting connectivity

Dean Banks, Ventia Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, stated that the company remains committed to supporting New Zealand's digital infrastructure as it takes on the role of Tuatahi's primary service delivery partner.

"We are proud of our long-term partnership with Tuatahi and are excited to further extend our relationship with a model that enables growth and operational efficiencies," Mr Banks said.

He added, "Ventia maintains a strong presence in New Zealand and is committed to supporting the country's digital future as a leading provider of telecommunications and digital infrastructure services."

Supporting local communities and digital priorities

The arrangement forms part of Tuatahi's strategy to ensure ongoing quality in fibre broadband delivery while supporting local communities and future connectivity needs. The company's fibre network footprint covers regions including Auckland, Waikato, Bay of Plenty, Hawke's Bay, Taranaki, Manawatū-Whanganui, and Wellington. By partnering with internet service providers, Tuatahi's approach enables a range of broadband services tailored to meet the needs of households and businesses.

Ventia, operating across over 400 sites in Australia and New Zealand, provides a broad range of services across various industry segments, including defence, social infrastructure, water, electricity and gas, resources, telecommunications, and transport. The company has a workforce of more than 35,000 people across the two countries.

With the renewed agreement, Tuatahi and Ventia aim to address the growing demand for high-speed, reliable fibre broadband and ensure the ongoing performance of Tuatahi's network infrastructure.