WiFi FAQs

If there is trouble Logging in, Logging out or using credit cards on the WiFi please see our WiFi area.

 

How do I check usage on my PIN number?

On the top right of this page are our two PIN card checkers. Choose FireStar for FireStar PINs or Hotlink for Hotlink PINs. Enter the PIN in the space provided and click "Check Now" to view the usage and time remaining.
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How much to Use FireStar WiFi?

Minimum Credit Card transaction is NZD$10.00 for 100 MBytes or $5/50MB PIN cards may be purchased at any location where cards are sold. For all practical purposes, multi log on and log off applies until traffic expires. There is a time limit set but this is very rarely reached or exceeded.

or

Pin cards may be purchased from the reception. Ask them for their price list.
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What does MB usage mean?

MB means a megabyte of downloadable and uploadable data (traffic) over an internet connection.

100MB roughly equals

  • 500 web pages
  • 10-20 YouTube videos
  • 150 Minutes of Skype
  • 25 MP3 files
  • 30-40 high resolution digital camera photos

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What does a FireStar unsecure network connection mean?

As we are creating the internet connection through our web service, this means that the local wireless network itself is unencrypted. This results in a warning from the Microsoft Windows about an unsecure network.
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Can a FireStar WiFi connection be hacked or be vulnerable to a virus?

A FireStar WiFi connection is no less secure than any other internet connection. It is the responsibility of the laptops owner to ensure that adequate safeguards against viruses etc are installed on the device and protection software should be kept up to date.
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What if I have a non Windows machine?

While most operating systems are able to connect to our FireStar WiFi Connection, FireStar Connect only offers technical support for Windows XP, Windows Vista and Windows 7.
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I can't detect the wireless network?

All laptops have a switch or soft button to turn the wireless off or on. Please ensure the wireless connection is switched on and try again.
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I keep getting disconnected..

If the session repeatedly ends then it may be one of two things:

  • the 5min inactivity timer is ending the session
  • you may have connectivity issues to the WiFi

For further assistance please contact FireStar Connect
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The wireless is really slow, or keeps dropping out, what can be done?

The wireless coverage of FireStar WiFi is comprehensive but sometimes there may still be connection problems. For further assistance please contact FireStar Connect
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What Hardware do I need to connect?

Any computer with 802.11b or 802.11g WiFi connection. In our experience, built in wireless connections on portable computers (such as laptops) tend to perform the best. PCMCIA wireless plugin cards have medium performance, and USB dongles have poor performance.
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I can't download emails?

To ensure there is connectivity, please login to the wifi via a browser (webmail) before using the email client software (e.g. Outlook), or the SMTP server may need to be changed.
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What SMTP should I use?

In most instances changing the SMTP server setting in an email client is not required, but in certain situations when the current settings may not be working, use "smtp.world-net.co.nz". For further assistance please contact FireStar Connect
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Can I use a VPN?

Yes - all common client VPN types work through FireStar WiFi Connection.
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I do not have wireless...

Some locations offer a workstation area that have a RJ45 socket suitable for a patch cable connection directly into the Ethernet port on your laptop. This will enable connection to the FireStar Login screen.
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I cant access certain applications on my computer even though I am connected to the internet

We don't block any access to any resource on the internet or provide any level of filtering, all outbound connects are permitted. If there are problems with certain applications please contact the application provider for support. Before doing so, check the connectivity by going to a common site on the web browser. Choose a site that is regularly updated with new information eg, www.nzherald.co.nz or yahoo.co.nz
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Any further questions please contact FireStar Connect and one of our friendly staff will assist you