New Zealand recently completed the auction of the 700-MHz band of radio spectrum, with specific frequencies assigned to successful bidders Telecom, Vodafone and 2degrees.
The government has reportedly raised an additional NZ$11.1 million ($9.6 million) in the assignment round, bringing total auction revenue to NZ$270 million.
“All three mobile network operators can now start building their 4G networks using this spectrum,” Communications and Information Technology Minister Amy Adams. "This successful auction means consumers will have a choice of three nationwide mobile providers for 4G services, which are capable of mobile data speeds up to ten times faster than 3G networks."
The Minister added that 90% of New Zealanders will gain access to 4G services in the next five years, and 75 new towers will be built to increase mobile coverage.
Under the conditions of the auction, Vodafone and Telecom are required to build five and ten new towers each year respectively, for five years, in areas to which they do not currently provide coverage.
Telecom, Vodafone and 2degrees are required to upgrade 75% of their existing rural cell towers to 4G within five years.