Shoppers at Three Parks could soon notice fewer dead spots and faster mobile data, with multiple networks upgrading coverage in the fast-growing commercial area.

One NZ has deployed a temporary Cell on Wheels (CoW) at the site as part of a larger programme to strengthen service in the area. 

Many local customers will be familiar with difficulties accessing mobile data, and the CoW, deployed last Friday (February 13), has “already made a noticeable difference to network coverage”, according to One NZ.

“For customers, that means faster data speeds and a better experience using their phones,” a One NZ spokesperson told the Wānaka App. 

They added the company was aware of performance issues in the area, "particularly at busy times”, and the CoW is one of a number of steps to address them.

An upgrade to the Wānaka High site, which provides coverage into Three Parks, has just been completed, and the company has plans for another mobile site in the area later this year.

Spark, another mobile network operator, is also investing in Three Parks.

Spark has had a temporary cell site there since December 2023 to support growing demand. 

A representative said the company is planning a permanent site later this year.

It did not respond to a question about whether customers have experienced data issues in the area.

Meanwhile, 2degrees, New Zealand’s third mobile network operator, said it wasn’t aware of performance issues at Three Parks but said it was “keen to get any reports from customers so that we can investigate further”. 

A Queenstown Lakes District Council representative said staff meet regularly with telecommunications providers to plan for future growth, but the council is not responsible for cell towers or internet coverage, which are governed by central government legislation.