Transforming IT and communications in Christchurch
Enable Networks was first launched in 2007 with funding from Christchurch City Holdings Limited (CCHL) the investments holding company of the Christchurch City Council (CCC), and a grant from the Ministry of Economic Development.
It was realised that Christchurch lacked the competition and “open access” fibre infrastructure that would be required to catch up with the broadband capability and business productivity enjoyed in other countries. Therefore the CCC and CCHL agreed that investing in fibre to create a world class broadband infrastructure was important for the future of the city in a similar way that investing in roading, power, water and transport is important.
Initially launched as Christchurch City Networks Limited (CCNL), the company was established as an independent subsidiary of Christchurch City Holdings Limited, the $2.2b investments holding company for the Christchurch City Council. CCNL designed and rapidly constructed a fibre network utilising the best local specialist contractors and the best technology available anywhere in the world. Strong support from businesses and service providers ensured the network expanded and delivered commercial solutions from day one.
In 2009 the company re-branded as Enable Networks to reflect the commercial and social success the company is achieving. The “enablement” of many organisations to deliver or receive innovative services using unlimited bandwidth is key to the new brand identity.
Enable Networks is delivering a world class fibre optic network that is owned by the City for the benefit of the businesses and community living and working in Christchurch.
