Enable has partnered with 24 retail service providers (RSPs) to deliver ultra-fast broadband (UFB) services in Christchurch since it released its range of wholesale business products in February.

"To have so many RSPs on board so quickly demonstrates the high level of interest among retailers to help local businesses reap the benefits of UFB immediately," said Enable CEO Steve Fuller.

The UFB model means Enable operates as a wholesale fibre access provider only, and needs RSPs to develop and sell services to local businesses over its network.

"Having 24 RSPs operating over our network, means Christchurch businesses are already enjoying greater choice in provider and technology services as a result of the UFB project – to go along with a significant reduction in the cost of fibre services," said Mr Fuller.

Today, Enable has the most extensive business fibre network in Christchurch covering 80 percent of Christchurch's commercial areas – meaning thousands of businesses can benefit from UFB now. And its business coverage is expanding rapidly with work underway to build network throughout the commercial parts of Woolston, Hornby and Middleton.

Mr Fuller added that there are very good reasons why RSPs have been keen to work with Enable.

"Our network has proven itself as high performing and incredibly reliable – it simply works."

"As the government's UFB partner in Christchurch, we're committed to expanding our coverage exponentially. This makes our network the best choice for RSPs and for their business customers as they look to maximise the growth opportunities."

Enable is also busy working with RSPs to prepare them for the next major development in the UFB project – the release of new retail products and services suitable for homes and small businesses. These services will be available to the first areas in Christchurch soon.

A full list of RSPs that have signed up to deliver UFB services to Christchurch businesses is available on Enables website.