The Rural Connectivity Group

Helping to connect rural communities to fast reliable broadband comes naturally to The Connectivity Group (TCG).

Working alongside organisations like the government-funded Rural Connectivity Group (RCG) we have partnered to connect some of the now 450 new rural cellular sites in the RCG network across the Canterbury and Wellington Regions and in the challenging terrain of the Chatham Islands.

With a reputation for excellence in the telecommunications industry, TCG brings a wealth of experience and expertise to the table. Partnering with RCG has allowed us to showcase our proficiency in the design and deployment of microwave backhaul links, which serve as the backbone for reliable communication networks. By leveraging our technical know-how, TCG has successfully deployed over 17 microwave backhaul links across Aotearoa with a 99.9% uptime, connecting remote rural sites back to the fibre network, or in the case of Chatham Islands through a series of fibre, satellite, and microwave links.

Ultimate Broadband (UBB), TCG’s subsidiary, has played a pivotal role in supplying the transportation of data by utilising UBB’s existing infrastructure and high-country

Radio Access Network (RAN) across the rugged Canterbury region, contributing significantly to the success of Canterbury's Burkes Pass, Mt Olympus and Rakaia Gorge Sites. UBB’s robust network and existing 18,000 square-kilometre coverage have been instrumental in overcoming the connectivity and geographical challenges faced in remote areas. The ability to interconnect with Mobile Network Operators gave UBB an advantage to walk in as a transit provider.

Mastering new heights TCGs Field Services team has demonstrated exceptional dedication and adaptability throughout our collaboration with the RCG.

With the unique requirements of working in remote rural environments, the TCG field team has recognised the importance of upskilling. The team has undertaken rigorous training to become certified in rope access, an essential skill needed to climb cellular towers, some sitting at 20m tall. This significant milestone has not only enhanced our capabilities but also solidified our position as a trusted business in the telecommunications industry.

With a proven track record in design, deployment, and transit and an expanding skill set in tower rigging, TCG is well-prepared to continue supporting the RCG, continuing to deliver backhaul and data transit services to upcoming tourist and mobile blackspot destinations.

The Rural Connectivity Group

The RCG is an organisation committed to bridging the digital divide in remote rural areas. In August 2017, the New Zealand government appointed the RCG to deliver 3G, 4G, and VoLTE services to rural New Zealand. By deploying a world-first Multi- Operator Core Network (MOCN), RCG aims to improve reliable connectivity to communities, providing New Zealand’s three carrier providers on one tower. The RCG leverages its national and regional relationships to involve local businesses to build new cell towers and welcomed the partnership with TCG.

To read more about the RCG follow this https://www.thercg.co.nz/