Simon Bridges National MP simonbridges.co.nz

Having access to quality internet is a vital part of modern life. It is something we have come to expect.

It makes our personal lives more efficient and convenient, gives businesses immediate access to global audiences, and provides better learning opportunities for our children.

It's important New Zealanders are given the best chance to lead successful lives, which is why National is delivering improved internet connectivity to 97.8 per cent of New Zealanders by 2019.

Here in Tauranga, our urban Ultra-Fast Broadband network is complete, and has a 32.1 per cent uptake, which is one of the highest in the country.

Tauranga's UFB rollout was completed earlier this year and was a huge milestone for the city.

All schools and hospitals can now connect to high-speed broadband. This gives teachers and hospital staff across the country access to vital information and services, and revolutionises students' learning experiences with digital resources.

Also, with all of the new growth in the city, we can keep up with high demands for faster internet, increasing productivity.

Benefits of UFB include enjoying a wide range of entertainment options, improvement in business productivity and better online learning.

Nineteen towns or cities now have a fully complete Ultra-Fast Broadband build and 2.4 million Kiwis are able to connect to Ultra-Fast Broadband.

These are some of the biggest infrastructure projects undertaken in NZ, and they are already bringing huge social, economic and community benefits to New Zealanders.

Not only are a growing number of Tauranga residents connecting, the speeds people are enjoying are also constantly increasing.

This places not only people in Tauranga, but everyone in NZ in a great position to drive forward into the digital economy as businesses are given a competitive edge and become more efficient.

Local organisations are also reaping the benefits, and are finding it easier to connect with their communities and organise local events.

It's great to see how improved connectivity is transforming our way of life for the better. And I look forward to seeing the Government's broadband programmes continue to deliver great benefits to New Zealanders.