Frequently Asked Questions

1

How do I get access to the Auckland City WI-FI Service?

To access the internet at an Auckland City Wi-Fi Zone, users need only a Wi-Fi enabled device.  Most computers now come with Wi-Fi built-in and many mobile devices now include Wi-Fi. 

After connecting your Wi-Fi enabled laptop or Wi-Fi gadget to the ESSID “Auckland City Wi-Fi”, your device should say “connected”.

Your web browser will take you to the Auckland City Wi-Fi page where you can choose to log in or buy time with your credit card or voucher. 

Once you have purchased time, you can open the internet browser on the device and go to any website or homepage you like.    

2

How much does it cost to use the Auckland City Wi-Fi network?

It costs $3 per hour (for 60 megabytes) or $6.50 per 24 hours (for 160 megabytes) or $30 for seven days (for 1.2 gigabytes).  All rates include GST. 

There are no plans or term contracts - credit is purchased in advance, like using a prepaid mobile phone.

The online system measures time and data used and will prompt you to purchase more credit once you have used up your current credit.

3

How do I access my favourite webpage at the Auckland City wireless zone?

Login using your username and password previously created during the registration process to use the internet.  Simply enter your username and password and click the login button.  This enables you to use up any credit added to your account.

4

Will I be able to get wireless service inside a building?

Wi-Fi systems are designed to cover outdoor areas with a strong signal.  Depending on the construction of your building, you may or may not get a sufficiently strong signal to connect to your computer.  Thus, Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) is required to receive the service.

5

Is this a free service?

Only information on Auckland city is free browsing, eg events in Auckland city or information on bus, train and ferry transport.  For all other internet use (google, yahoo etc), you will need to buy time with your credit card or voucher prior to using the internet.

6

Why is Auckland City Council involved in Wi-Fi service, most of us have internet access anyway?

This Wi-Fi service offers unique advantages such as access to the internet with no ongoing charges or term contracts.  It’s affordable and easy to roam.  The user can log on and use as and where required within the coverage zones with no ongoing commitment.

7

I have used up all my credit, what should I do?

The online system measures time and data use and will prompt you to purchase more credit once you have utilised your current credit.

8

I could log on yesterday but today I can’t see the ESSID, why?

The nature of a Wi-Fi service is that coverage can be impacted by many environmental factors.  Weather, buildings, other wireless devices operating in the vicinity are examples of things that can impact your coverage.  To assist, we show coverage maps online that give guidelines to the service experience that could be expected within a coverage area. 

In summary, if you can connect to the ESSID and you have good signal strength you can utilise the service.  If this is not available, then you are not in a coverage zone.

9

Can I use my company or personal VPN?

Yes – the system supports all the common VPN clients in the market.  Check with your IT department or IT guru if you have problems with using it.