Spark and One NZ have launched a combined outage-tracking system that covers both real-time and scheduled disruptions across the country.
The platform is the first of its kind globally, pooling data from competing telecoms providers into a single resource.
Cellular Networks Critical to Public Safety Operations
“It will be a game changer in emergencies, particularly for extreme weather events,” Mitchell said. “Our emergency services rely on their mobile phones and other digital devices every day to do their job. Access to cellular networks and fast reliable data is essential for keeping themselves and the public safe.”
The service is believed to be the first of its kind worldwide, merging information from two competing operators. It can display live outages as well as planned disruptions up to two weeks in advance.
Hourua Partnership Demonstrates Public-Private Model
The platform builds on the Hourua partnership between Spark and One NZ, which already provides priority networks for emergency services. Mitchell highlighted the project as a model of private sector collaboration delivering public benefits.
Cyclone Tam Validates Network Resilience Tool
The service was trialled during Cyclone Tam, where it proved critical for frontline operations. “Fire and Emergency New Zealand was able to see immediately what impact the network outages would have on their ability to alert and mobilise local volunteers through their app and put in a work-around to communicate with them,” Mitchell said.
Enhanced Risk Visibility for Emergency Planning
Emergency operations centres will now have clearer visibility of risks during extreme weather events, allowing better planning and faster responses.
“It will show our emergency operations centres and planners when and where their operations will be impacted by network outages so they can plan around it,” Mitchell stated.