Since opening a year ago, Wairoa’s Digital Hub has upskilled and provided technology access to around 3,500 people.

Based in the Wairoa Library, the Digital Hub is fast becoming a public go-to for people wanting to access technology and build their digital confidence.

The aim of the hub is to provide another local component to improve the district’s connectivity and digital capability through offering community courses, 15 computers which are available for public use and a technology hub manager on hand to assist.

Through the initiative, people are able to improve connectivity by breaking down barriers, including access to affordable broadband. During December 2021, 13 people signed up to Skinny Jump internet which provides affordable broadband. This takes the number of local users accessing internet through Skinny Jump modems to around 200.

Day to day Hub activities include helping people with a wide range of activities including formatting assignments, online applications, email access, printing from their devices and general computer related assistance.

The Digital Hub has continued to offer the digital steps courses and after-school coding classes, including coding classes for home schooled children.

Wairoa Mayor Craig Little said technology is growing at a rapid pace and the Digital Hub is a base for people to be able to keep up no matter whether it is a smartphone, tablet or computer. “Through the Digital Hub we are able to provide a place for people to learn so they can interface with the world.

“There has always been a real appetite for better digital access in Wairoa and this initiative complements a number of other digitally-based projects in the district.

“The hub is a great example of how Central Government external funding, in this case through the PGF fund, can be transformative for rural areas.”

15 February 2022

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