The fine print is not so promising for business and residential internet customers as the 50% Telecom-owned cable operator lowers its pricing by 44%. Tuanz wonders if the cut is aimed in part at protecting Southern Cross' monopoly as NZ's only broadband connection to the outside world.

Lobby group warns of a possible domino effect with Vodafone, “Telecom proper,” and 2degrees locking in customers. But a high profile analyst defends the right to lock.

Coming to a beach near you?

Vodafone has confirmed the unsourced rumour in well-regarded niche trade publication Computerworld that it is in talks with Amazon about bringing the Kindle to New Zealand.

External communications manager Paul Brislen told NBR that Vodafone is in "deep discussions"with the giant US e-tailer about its e-book tablet, but would not be drawn on further details.