[Patrick]

I saw it in the paper yesterday. Since we moved here six months ago, the one thing I've really been put off about is paying a line rental fee just to have my phone connection to have my Broadband service (I needed to do it through Telecom for various reasons). Been following developments, and it now looks like the Telecom separation, and unbundling, will occur mid-year, with Internet tv, separate Internet and phone packages and other things to follow shortly. I can't wait ... But, does anyone know anything about pricing schemes for the various companies yet?

[eternalkiwi]

While Telco "Separation" will occur mid-year, it may not result in any material sudden change in Telco products on offer. Especially considering the way Telco companies operate today.
Alternatives are wireless ISP's like Woosh or possibly Ihug which is now owned by Vodafone and they also have local calling.

[KerryS]

The only stand alone broadband at the moment is available through Woosh or TelstraClear, but you are required to have a phoneline through them instead.
I converted to Woosh when I moved recently, and despite initial teething problems with installation and account set-up they have been fine. The phone line was a bit fuzzy when calling Finland, but has been fine to everywhere else.
The speed is pretty good too, and you don't drop to dial-up if you are about to exceed your limit, you can just increase to the next plan (which is $10 a month for me).
The cost of Woosh wireless phone and broadband is $49 for a 1GB plan and $59 for a 5Gb plan, not sure of all the others...