Original URL: https://www.theregister.com/2003/06/25/smallest_nation_goes_wireless_totally/
Smallest nation goes wireless – totally
Very long way from anywhere
Posted in Networks, 25th June 2003 09:36 GMT
If you go whale-watching at the Pacific island of Niue, somewhere near New Zealand, you should take your Centrino PC, because you'll be able to get on the Internet as soon as you moor up in harbour there. Free.
The island has only 2,000 inhabitants, roughly, and they now all have WiFi access - if they can afford the PC needed to pick it up. According to the Internet Users Society the service is completely free. And of course, it's mostly aimed at visiting tourists.
"WiFi is the perfect fit for the Island of Niue, where harsh weather conditions of rain, lightning, salt water, and high humidity cause major problems with underground copper lines," said Richard St Clair, Co-Founder and Technical Manager at The Internet Users Society - Niue and Chairman, Pacific Island Chapter ISOC.
Connectivity is provided by satellite feed, since the island is a very long way away from anywhere else and the idea is to encourage high-tech tourist visitors.