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New Zealand's Telecom to Invest NZ$574 Million in 3G Mobile Network

Posted on: Friday, 17 October 2008, 09:00 CDT

Telecom Corporation of New Zealand is investing $574 million in its new W850 network over the next two years, to launch nationwide 3G mobile services.

The technology choices revealed by the company are expected to extend 3G service and fast mobile broadband to 97% of New Zealanders. According to the company, the benefits of the new technology include competitive advantage, operational efficiencies and reduced long-run capital spending which the enhanced network proposition will deliver.

The investment involves the nationwide rollout of wideband code division multiple access (WCDMA) technology, using a frequency of 850MHz.

In addition, Telecom also plans to deploy evolved high speed packet access (HSPA+), a technology offering higher broadband speeds and services for Telecom mobile customers.

Overall, Telecom now anticipates spending $2.4 billion on capital expenditure over the next two financial years. This includes the investment already being made in fixed line broadband services and a next generation network.

Telecom's W850 network will have a phased launch from November 2008 with the start of inbound roaming services, as well as a pilot program focused on ensuring a better customer experience. There will be a full launch of services by June 2009.

Paul Reynolds, CEO of Telecom, said: "Telecom's new mobile network will be superior on every level: the best nationwide coverage, the fastest internet on your mobile, a wide range of world-leading handsets, as well as better content, music and business applications."

Source: Datamonitor

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