Letter to Minister for Whanau Ora and Minister for Disability Issues

Hon Tariana Turia
Minister for Whanau Ora
Minister for Disability Issues
Parliament Buildings
Wellington 6160

22 December 2011

Our Digital Future

Dear Minister,

Congratulations on your appointment as Minister for Whanau Ora, Minister for Disability Issues and other portfolios.

I am writing to introduce InternetNZ. Our mission is to protect and promote the Internet for New Zealanders. As a charitable, independent and open membership body representing New Zealanders’ best interests, we are keen to work with you to realise the Government’s vision of “a safe, prosperous and successful New Zealand that creates opportunities for all New Zealanders to reach their personal goals and dreams”.

I am also writing to draw your attention to issues in your portfolios in which InternetNZ takes an interest. Prior to the elections, we published Future: Digital, a discussion-starter on Internet and digital-related priorities for an incoming Government. The document was well received, and it is relevant to a number of areas covered by your ministerial portfolios. I enclose a copy for your reference.

One particular issue I would like to raise with you at this time is the issue of the so-called “digital divide”. With respect to the Internet in New Zealand, a number of divides – economic, ethnic, geographic, and in age and technical abilities and skills – currently exist. InternetNZ believes that no one should be left behind, or excluded from, our digital society. This belief is compatible with the Ministry of Social Development’s vision of “an inclusive New Zealand where all people are able to participate in the social and economic life of their communities”. These two visions are highly compatible.

InternetNZ wishes to offer its assistance to the Government to address the digital divide and foster a truly inclusive New Zealand, online as well as offline. In this regard we contribute funding to several community and voluntary initiatives associated with the Internet such as the Computer Clubhouse; the 20/20 Trust and NetSafe.

On a final note, last year we organised the inaugural NetHui, a unique conference and participatory event built around multiple discussion streams relating to the Internet in New Zealand - for example there was a stream dedicated to access and diversity. Last year’s NetHui drew over 500 people from across a wide array of sectors and communities. Hon Bill English and Hon Steven Joyce delivered keynote addresses. Several other ministers and parliamentarians also attended and participated in the discussions. NetHui 2012 will take place from 11th to 13th July. We would very much like for you to attend and shall liaise with your office about this possibility.

If you wish, I am available to meet to discuss these or any other issues relating to the Internet in New Zealand.

Yours sincerely,

Vikram Kumar
Chief Executive