The build of a new communications network for police, the fire service and ambulances is underway.
It replaces the old analogue network, which the public were able to listen in on.
The new network is first being rolled out in South Canterbury. It will be the first time the three major emergency services are on the same wave length - allowing better coordination.
At a cost of $1.4 billion over 10 years - the network when completed in 2026 will be considered one of the biggest land mobile radio networks in the world.
It will be run by Next Generation Critical Communications - a division within the police - and has been tendered out to New Zealand company Tait Systems.
Steve Ferguson, director of Next Generation Critical Communications and senior ambulance paramedic Chris Laufale talk to Kathryn about the new communications technology.
Photo: RNZ / Adam Burns
