From the Minister

Digital technologies have transformed our lives in recent years. Digital literacy has grown exponentially, and digital devices have proliferated – personal computers, mobile phones, laptops and mobile wireless devices.

Our business and personal lives now depend on digital gateways for communication, information and entertainment. New, flexible mobile and remote technologies allow us to work from home or the beach, videoconference back to the New Zealand office from New York, or get a health check-up remotely. Underpinning these changes are sophisticated software, a more interactive web and the growing convergence of telecommunications, broadcasting and the internet.

Digital Strategy 2.0 responds to this new, rich, interactive environment. We understand that widespread, high-speed broadband is essential for New Zealand to participate in the contemporary world – and we will deliver it. We also recognise that connection alone is not enough – if we are to thrive, we need a digitally skilled population, online security and access to and support for New Zealand content.

This Strategy goes beyond looking at the factors that enable digital development. Our vision of the future is that New Zealanders should be leaders in the digital world and use digital technologies, skills and opportunities to contribute to a prosperous, sustainable and vibrant society. No country has more to gain from the ‘death of distance’ than New Zealand. Digital Strategy 2.0 maps out the steps towards this vision.

Three core ideas underpin this Strategy:

Unleashing the full potential of the interactive ubiquitous web. This means ensuring open access connection networks, open standards that allow different devices and networks to interconnect and as much open access to content as possible. We are committed to making sure that all future networks co-funded by government are based on open access principles. We are also committed to opening up access to national historic, scientific and geospatial information where possible.

Using digital technologies to drive productivity and economic growth. Digital technologies offer New Zealand the opportunity to improve our productivity and our connectedness to the rest of the world. This Strategy focuses on spreading awareness of the potential of digital technologies and on providing the skilled people and secure environment that businesses need to be able to take full advantage of the technology. In addition, we are boosting funding for research and development and providing support for high-potential digital firms.

Bringing everyone on the journey. The new, interactive digital environment puts the user more in control. We can’t afford for any New Zealanders to be left out. Being digital is easy if you can afford a laptop and a broadband connection – much tougher if you cannot even afford a phone. We are determined to break down the digital divide. The Community Partnership Fund, Aotearoa People’s Network and regional broadband partnerships already recognise this. The Digital Development Council and Forum now provide a means to link and support local digital champions and ideas across New Zealand. Starting from what we have already achieved, this Strategy provides the framework to scale up good ideas into national treasures.

Digital Strategy 2.0 calls on New Zealanders to explore the opportunities and tackle the shared challenges of digital development – to become leaders in the digital world. The future belongs to us all.

Hon David Cunliffe
Minister for Communications and Information Technology