A group of internet and retail entrepreneurs have joined together to announce plans for a $900 million fibre optic cable linking New Zealand, Australia and the United States.

The 13,000 kilometre link would be in place by 2013.

The group which includes Trade Me founder Sam Morgan and Warehouse Founder Stephen Tindall, aims to provide unlimited high speed broadband for Australasian customers. They want New Zealand to keep up with the rest of the world and to stop the increasing digital divide.

The idea is just at the feasibility stage, but the group is appealing to the business sector and the Government to help fund what it sees as a vital step forward for New Zealand.