Marae-based ultra fast broadband (UFB) will recreate the hubs of activity they once were, a Far North leader says.
Maori leaders, IT and digital technology entrepreneurs and business owners gathered in Auckland this week for the annual Maori IT hui to discuss kaupapa in the sector.
Maori broadband group Nga Pu Waea is in the early stages of a project to get ultra broadband set up at marae, the first being Otangarei in Whangarei.
Te Runanga o Te Rarawa chairman Haami Piripi said the use of pa was slowly dwindling and that UFB would be a great way of attracting young Maori back to their turangawaewae, by providing resources they enjoyed.
Nga Pu Waea chair Antony Royal said the pilot programme of getting fast internet at marae was under way and progress would be monitored.
