The New Zealand Commerce Commission has initiated a call for comments regarding its draft recommendation to remove access regulation from Chorus’ copper network in regions outside the national fibre footprint. This move follows the previous deregulation in urban areas where modern technologies, such as fibre, have become available.

Telecommunications Commissioner Tristan Gilbertson highlighted that technological advancements have diminished the monopoly concerns that justified the regulation of copper two decades ago. He pointed out that alternatives like Starlink and other wireless services have emerged, providing rural consumers with better-performing and more cost-effective options.

According to Gilbertson, most rural consumers now have access to at least three alternative technologies that are often more reliable and affordable than traditional copper services. The Commission believes that the competitive pressure from these alternatives is sufficient to justify the removal of copper access regulation.

The Commission's draft recommendation must be finalized for the Minister for Media and Communications by the end of the year, who will then decide on the next steps. Gilbertson emphasized the importance of a managed withdrawal process for copper services to protect consumers who have not yet transitioned to alternative technologies, similar to the successful Copper Withdrawal Code implemented in urban areas.

The Commission is inviting public feedback on its draft recommendation until April 9, 2025, followed by a period for cross-submissions until May 5, 2025.