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Chorus has announced the launch of a new Internet of Things (IoT) solution named Neura, developed in collaboration with Australian IoT provider National Narrowband Network Company (NNNCo). This newly introduced solution is set to bring real-time monitoring and management capabilities to councils, utilities, and businesses across New Zealand.
The Neura solution operates using low powered wide area technology known as LoRaWAN, recognised globally as a leading technology specifically built for IoT applications. This technology supports a broad ecosystem of low powered sensors and offers a variety of solutions for managing assets such as water systems, public lighting, power, and waste collection.
Joe Caccioppoli, Chorus' Head of Growth and New Business, highlighted the increasing demand for wireless asset management solutions. "Following our government-supported nationwide fibre rollout, we've seen growing need from organisations to wirelessly connect and track their physical assets and environments to help improve efficiency, reduce costs and improve sustainability outcomes," Caccioppoli stated. He added, "Our conversations with the market highlighted challenges to deploying IoT solutions that Chorus is well positioned to solve as New Zealand's leading digital infrastructure provider."
Robert Zagarella, CEO and co-founder of NNNCo, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership. "As a global leader in IoT, our partnership with Chorus will bring a new level of expertise to the local market. Chorus' world-class network building credentials, combined with our real-world applications, is set to enable better decision-making, operational efficiency, cost reduction and enhanced customer experience," said Zagarella.
As part of the deployment, Neura will place LoRaWAN gateways on Chorus assets, such as poles and exchanges, and use fibre or cellular to provide backhaul. The NNNCo's platform will then enable customers to analyse data from sensors, visualise trends, and automate actions, thus enhancing the operational capabilities of various sectors.
Chorus is already running a trial of Neura with a water utility provider, and coverage has been established in six cities: Auckland, Hamilton, Tauranga, Wellington, Christchurch, and Dunedin. Further rollout plans are currently underway.
The NZ IoT Alliance has projected that there will be 100 billion IoT connections globally by 2025, underscoring the substantial expansion in IoT adoption and integration. New Zealand businesses are increasingly recognising IoT technologies as pivotal for their operational strategy and transformation.
