Enable Networks has launched fibre broadband in Christchurch’s suburb of Halswell, becoming the first in the area to receive the services.

The ultra-fast broadband network provider says up to 5,000 potential Halswell fibre broadband users could benefit from the plan, enjoying faster fibre-based broadband, telephone services and calling packages.

“This announcement marks a major milestone for Enable,” says Steve Fuller, Enable CEO.

“More importantly, it marks an enormous advancement in the telecommunications services available to Christchurch residents and business owners.”

Retail service providers Snap, Orcon and Slingshot will be the first to provide residential services over Enable’s fibre network with the company saying others will follow soon after.

“Success for Enable will ultimately be measured by how many people connect and enjoy the benefits of fibre broadband, and what they do over it to improve their lives or grow their businesses,” Fuller says.

“We’ve been getting very positive feedback from the 50 trial participants connected to our service in Halswell.

“We’re also hearing through retail service providers and directly from Halswell residents that there is very strong interest in moving to fibre broadband.”

Following the Halswell launch, Enable will be making services available to other parts of the city – beginning with Bishopdale and Papanui over the next three months.

“We will make sure all customers in the areas we are building the network know as soon as they can connect to fibre broadband,” Fuller says.