The government is looking at upgrading broadband infrastructure in several of Otago and Southland's rural areas.

It is setting aside $150m for the next phase of work nationally.

More than 200 mobile black spots have been identified around the country.

Of those 40 are in Otago and Southland.

They are all rural areas with poor connectivity that attract high numbers of domestic and foreign visitors.

Network operators are being invited to bid for involvement, before a final decision is made on which areas to upgrade.