Commerce Commisions Next Generation Networks Conference:
Broadband at the Crossroads: Convergence, NGN and the future
26 & 27 February 2009
The Langham Hotel, Auckland

The conference is part of the Commerce Commission's Next Generation Networks (NGN) study. The study aims to facilitate a broad and informed discussion of the potential implications and opportunities of next generation networks.

What the Conference is about:
Over the past few years debate in New Zealand on ‘broadband’ has largely been focused on ensuring equitable access to existing telecommunications networks. 

As new all IP networks are built and existing network infrastructure are upgraded, the public debate has started to shift to ‘superfast broadband’ and how to deliver it. Is this the right focus?  What are the services people want? What are the real drivers for NGNs in New Zealand?

The conference is your chance to take the conversation in a new direction. Instead of focusing on the regulation of existing monopoly networks, it is an opportunity to consider development of a strategy that facilitates competition and innovation, and at the same time minimising the need for regulatory intervention in this new converged world.    

The challenge is to escape from old ideas and institutions and identify new approaches to facilitate the opportunities provided by these technological changes. The conference will start by considering what services are possible in the future and looking back to the present, allowing all parties:

• a broader and common understanding of the issues and opportunities ahead; and 
• a focus on where industry and the market are best left to their own devices and the areas where both government and regulator need to keep their eye on the ball.

Conference topics will include:

• international perspective;
• business and commercial models in a converging world;
• services and applications - What the future might look like and how the models are changing; and
• opportunities and challenges of the core and access network.

 **Registrations Are Open**

To encourage a wide range of interest groups and people to take part in the discussion, the Commission will not be charging a conference attendance fee. Early registration of interest in attending is essential, as conference numbers are limited and the number of attendees per organisation will be initially restricted to five. Attendance will be on a first come, first served basis!

To register click here , or email events@tuanz.org.nz or call 09 488 1888.

**You will be notified if your company has already reached 5 attendees and put on a waiting list**