A long-standing Central Otago mobile black spot has been removed, thanks to central government investment in a new cell tower at Danseys Pass.

As the warmer months approach, residents and visitors to the small Central Otago township now have mobile phone coverage, extending more than 10 kilometres along Danseys Pass Road.

Danseys Pass Hotel general manager Matthew Hawkes said the upgrade, completed in recent months, marks “the end of an era”.

“It’s an expectation nowadays when we’re staying anywhere that cell phone reception is a given,” he said.

“At the hotel, we didn’t mind not having it because guests really enjoyed the atmosphere that we provided.

“Not having cell phones in front of them meant they could relax, enjoy the fire, and the company of other guests.

“So it’s bittersweet for us, because it has taken away from that a bit.”

In a letter to local leaders in early October, Minister for Media and Communication Paul Goldsmith said the tower “will provide everyone with access to the emergency 111 network no matter what mobile network they are with”.

The minister said the tower was built by the Rural Connectivity Group (RCG) under the government's Rural Connectivity Programme - a project he said he was “proud of”.

Installation was made possible through collaboration between RCG, National Infrastructure and Financing (a government-established entity that links private capital with infrastructure projects), and Central Otago District Council.

Central Otago mayor Tamah Alley welcomed the development, describing it as “pretty exciting”.

She said the new coverage would improve safety for visitors, residents and travellers along Danseys Pass Road, particularly at the hotel and campground.

Danseys Pass Road, a more than 50-kilometre mostly gravel route linking the Maniototo with North Otago, is known for its steep climbs, winding corners and occasional snow closures in winter.

Previously, mobile coverage had been unavailable along much of the route.

Have a story to share or comment to make? Contact [email protected]

Photo: File