Satellite technology has been launched as a backup to bolster mobile coverage. 

SpaceX successfully launched a rocket containing Starlink satellites to go alongside One New Zealand's mobile network. 

One New Zealand Chief Executive Jason Paris told Tim Dower that it's a layer of resilience in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle. 

He says power to cell towers was a problem, and it was a safety issue that some couldn't get in touch with emergency services or tell loved ones they're safe. 

LISTEN ABOVE