The Green Party wants to revive plans for a second internet cable system to New Zealand.
Green co-leader Russel Norman. Photo: RNZ
In August, Pacific Fibre dumped its plans for such a cable, saying it could not raise the funding required.
Green co-leader Russel Norman said Government investment in a second internet cable system, supported by smarter Government procurement policies, would lead a step-change in the IT economy.
He said the Government could take a cornerstone investment in the cable for about $100 million.
Commercial returns would be expected from that investment.
Dr Norman said the money could come out of existing infrastructure spending. For example, he said that 0.8% of the budget for building motorways would cover it.
Dr Norman said the proposal will be incorporated into policy for the 2014 election.
