Hello experts

Just after some advice .. I will be shifting house in two weeks time, and naturally the internet connection is the most important consideration. Friends have warned that in the past they have been unable to get connected due to no ports available on the local exchange, and being put on a waiting list for connection that could take years.

Is there any way to check that there are ports available on the exchange (Waitakere, west Auckland)? Xnet hekp desk advises they will not know until they try and connect, which cannot be until the previous owner has been disconnected ...

Should I perhaps contact the previous owner and ask them to keep the connection and I will transfer the ownership or take over the payments or something?

Being without a connection for any period of time just cannot happen ... my teenage sons will kill me ... Wireless is also not an option due to the location of the property.

Any ideas anyone, or contacts who would know if the exchange is at capacity or not?

Cheers
Gary