Katoa Connect

01/06/2026

We’ve been working hard on a plan to make sure every person in Aotearoa feels at home in the digital world. Here is our "Roadmap to 2028" and what it means for you and your whānau:

What we are building together:

➡️ More Support: We’re bringing more AI and safety tips to our Māori, Pasifika, Refugee, and Senior communities.
➡️ Better Access: We are working directly with disabled communities to close the 52% gap in digital assistance.
➡️ Better Tools: We’re building a "Digital Equity Index" to make sure the voices of our community are heard at the highest levels.

The Journey Ahead:
➡️ This Year (2026): Focusing on the digital basics to get everyone started.
➡️ Next Year (2027): Adding new courses for health and money skills.
➡️ 2028 & Beyond: Leading the way with advanced classes that keep you safe and connected.

We are building this bridge together. Which part of the roadmap are you most excited about?

31/05/2026

Trouble texting? Use your voice! Some smartphone users aren't aware that they can easily transcribe spoken messages to send via text, Messenger, or WhatsApp.

Just click through into your messages with the chosen contact, bring up the keyboard, and locate the small microphone icon. Tap it, speak clearly, and see your words come up in written form like magic! This is a great accessibility feature for those who struggle with eyesight, spelling, or finger dexterity, or who simply don't have the time to type out long messages.

Make sure you are using the icon on the keyboard itself, not the one in the messaging app which will send an audio message. It does pay to give the message a quick once-over to ensure your words have been transcribed correctly.

28/05/2026

Did you know there are affordable fibre options available for eligible whānau across Aotearoa? 👏🏽

Through Chorus’ Equity Fibre initiative, eligible households may be able to access fast, reliable fibre internet for as little as $30 per month - helping more families stay connected for learning, work, communication and everyday life.

In today’s world, internet access isn’t a luxury - it’s essential. 🌏

If you or someone you know has been struggling with the cost of staying connected, this could be worth looking into.

🔗 Check eligibility and learn more here: https://www.chorus.co.nz/get-connected/residential/fibre-plans/equity-fibre

28/05/2026

27/05/2026

Did you know that having too many apps doesn't just slow down your phone—it can actually slow you down by creating unnecessary noise? Clearing out the "clutter" is a simple way to save your battery life and make it much easier to find exactly what you and your whānau actually need.

Your 3-Step Digital Clean:
➡️ Scroll through your home screen: If you don't recognize an app, you probably don't need it.
➡️ Check your storage: Old games or "one-time" event apps are usually the biggest space-wasters.
➡️ Delete with confidence: Remember, if you ever need an app again, you can always download it later from the app store!

How many apps did you delete today?

26/05/2026

How do we make sure no one is left behind in the digital age? By listening, learning, and looking at the facts.
Recently, our research highlighted that over 800,000 adults in Aotearoa are still struggling with basic digital skills. This isn't just a number—it represents thousands of whānau who deserve better access to the digital world.

What we are building for you:
⭐️ The New Zealand Digital Equity Index: We are creating a new tool to make sure your voices and your needs are heard by decision-makers at the highest levels.
⭐️ Learning Together: Our annual studies help us understand the real-life hurdles you face, so we can build better programmes to help you thrive.
We are building a more connected Aotearoa through both data a

16/05/2026

Distance shouldn’t mean disconnection. Whether your whānau is in the next town or across the world, we want to help you see the faces you love.
Sometimes it feels like there are too many apps and too many buttons, which can lead to "Digital Overwhelm." But the truth is, you only need to master one to keep the Whanaungatanga (connection) alive.

Your Video Calling 101 Guide:
📱Pick your 'Whare': Choose the app your family uses most—usually Messenger or WhatsApp.
📱Look for the Camera: Tap the small video camera icon at the top of your chat.
📱Wait for the Smile: Give it a few seconds to connect, then enjoy the kōrero!

12/05/2026

Do you feel cyber secure?

Making sure that people feel safe in their online activities is a crucial part of our kaupapa. The digital world presents many opportunities and is also home to a lot of essential services, so it's very important that people know how to keep themselves safe.

10/05/2026

Do QR codes make you wary? These fuzzy little squares are all over the place now, and can be very helpful as a physical signpost to an online resource. However, there are some security concerns to consider. Here are some actions you can take to make your scanning safer.

09/05/2026

Some smartphone users aren't aware that they can easily transcribe spoken messages to send via text, Messenger, or WhatsApp.

Just click through into your messages with the chosen contact, bring up the keyboard, and locate the small microphone icon. Tap it, speak clearly, and see your words come up in written form like magic! This is a great accessibility feature for those who struggle with eyesight, spelling, or finger dexterity, or who simply don't have the time to type out long messages.

Make sure you are using the icon on the keyboard itself, not the one in the messaging app which will send an audio message. It does pay to give the message a quick once-over to ensure your words have been transcribed correctly.