Tony Baird has stepped down as the Chief Executive of Farmside, the broadband service provider for rural areas, as he has been appointed as the Chief of networks and operations in Vodafone.

Following the resignation of Tony, Farmside has allocated its Board Chairman, Richie Smith as the interim CEO.

"Under Tony's guidance Farmside has grown over 700% with a customer base of over 11,000 rural and urban New Zealanders", said Smith.

He further said that Tony will always be credited with his success in developing the corporate control, in addition to the experimental setting up of remote rural schools satellite broadband service.

The rural broadband usage has been enhanced a lot after the successful launch of the service in these areas. He has contributed sincerely to the development of the rural youth by enhancing the service.

He will be officially leaving the Company on June 30.

According to a survey, as many as 84% youth, who are living in the rural areas, have been totally away from the use of broadband.

Vodafone has joined hands with Farmside in order ensure that the service reaches even in the most remote areas in the country.

In addition, Federated Farmers President, Don Nicolson, has appreciated the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry for addressing the issues, which the rural population has been witnessing.