TUANZ Fibre Field Visit to NorthPower

TUANZ Fibre Field Visit to NorthPower

28 & 29 May 2009 > Whangarei

TUANZ members are invited to take part in a field visit to NorthPower’s Fibre to the Business installation in Whangarei, on 28 and 29 May.

Recent publicity around NorthPower – including this TUANZ blog - has attracted a great deal of interest. By using the overhead electricity line corridor, NorthPower has shown a lead in a deployment that offers a strong platform at low cost. It has attracted the attention of policy makers, other lines companies, local authorities and other telecommunications interests.

NorthPower has been generous in extending an invitation to all interested TUANZ members to visit its site, as well as having a full presentation on the project and an opportunity for full discussion and debate around this and other fibre issues.

Please note that in keeping with the times this is not a typical TUANZ “event” – it is a low key, no frills, informal gathering. But we will not compromise on the outcome – this will be a serious opportunity for interested people to learn a lot in a short time.

Space is limited so please register NOW:

Dates:  Commences at 2pm, Thursday 28 May; finishes midday, Friday 29 May

Venue:              Flames International Hotel, Onerahi, Whangarei


Questions and Answers:

Q          Who should attend?

A          Technical, operational and commercial people who know something about fibre deployment and the government’s plans, but would like to see an innovative, working example and develop a network of like minded people.

Q          Can any TUANZ member come?

A          Yes, but for space reasons there is a limit of two per company at this time. Any people above this number can be waitlisted and will be advised a fortnight ahead whether they can be accommodated.

Q          Can non-TUANZ members attend?

A          At this stage attendance is confined to TUANZ members. Non-members can go on a waitlist and will be advised a fortnight ahead whether they can be accommodated. (To join TUANZ click this link.)

Q          What will it cost?

A          There is a fee of $195 plus GST per attendee to cover costs, payable on registration and non-refundable.

Q          What does the fee cover?

A          Meeting room costs, afternoon and morning coffees, a networking dinner on Thursday night at a quality Whangarei restaurant, and transport for the field trip around the NorthPower installation.

Q          What is not covered?

A          Travel to/from Whangarei, accommodation, meals other than Thursday dinner, beverages.

Q          What about accommodation?

A          Please book direct with Flames. If you quote the TUANZ conference, a special rate of $170 for a twin or $140 for a single room will apply.

Q          What will be on the programme?

A          Introductory presentation about NorthPower – about 1.5 hours. Field visit including lines, fibre laboratory, and technical centre – about 2 hours. Discussion groups around attendee’s specific questions – about 3 hours.

Q          What will the discussion groups cover?

A          Your call. Registrants will be invited to lodge questions for discussion, and the programme will be structured around these. Anything about fibre is within scope.

Q          When should I register?

A          Now! We seriously expect to have to limit numbers. Registrations are open now here and close on 14 May. You will be advised on registration whether you are confirmed or waitlisted.

Q          What if I am waitlisted?

A          You should still pay the $195 fee to register. You will be advised whether or not you have been accepted on 15 May. If you cannot be accepted your fee will be returned at that time.

Q          Who should I contact for further information?

A          Louis van Wyk on 09 488 1885 or louis@tuanz.org.nz