The Catlins community is getting in behind a drive for a new Vodafone cellphone site at Papatowai.
Tourism Catlins is running a petition and contacting residents and business owners to create support for a new cellphone tower at the popular holiday spot.
Project co-ordinator Kim Dodds said the majority of the Catlins did not have cellphone coverage, from 5km south of Owaka to Fortrose in the southern Catlins.
The group was looking for a site that would cover the Tahakopa Valley, towards Owaka and outlying areas.
Owaka policeman Senior Constable Murray Hewitson said the cellphone reception across the Catlins was patchy, and improved coverage would "definitely be a help" for emergency services.
Last month Vodafone launched a community cell site scheme where communities with no cellphone coverage can apply for a tower. Yesterday the Clutha District Council announced supporting the application.
