Starlink, the satellite internet service by SpaceX, has become New Zealand's largest rural internet provider, according to recent data from the Telecommunications Development Levy (TDL). The company reported 58,000 customers in the country, with revenue of $100.96 million, as per the commission's calculations.
This growth has impacted local internet providers, some of which have struggled to compete. The TDL, which funds telecommunications infrastructure, has not yet released the latest figures, but the current data highlights Starlink's dominance in rural areas.
Starlink's low-orbit satellite technology offers high-speed internet to remote regions, where traditional broadband is limited. This has made it a popular choice for rural New Zealanders, though some local players have faced challenges due to the competition.