New Zealand Announces 24-30 GHz Spectrum Plan for Mobile and Satellite Services

New Zealand’s Radio Spectrum Management (RSM), business unit within the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), has unveiled its high-level allocation decisions for the 24 – 30 GHz radio spectrum range. This announcement follows a comprehensive consultation process in 2021 and marks a critical milestone in optimising spectrum utilisation.

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RSM has made high-level allocation decisions for the use of this spectrum, with a focus on providing clarity to the mobile and satellite industries for their long-term planning.

Also Read: New Zealand Government Grants 3.5 GHz Spectrum to Major Network Operators for 5G Rollout

Use of the 24 – 30 GHz spectrum

High-Level Allocation Decision

The cabinet has made a high-level allocation decision for the radio spectrum range of 24 – 30 GHz. This decision aims to provide certainty to the mobile and satellite industries regarding the portions of the spectrum available for their use in the long term.

Allocation in the 26 GHz Band

In the 26 GHz band, the 24.25 – 27.5 GHz spectrum range will be primarily allocated for mobile use, with the potential inclusion of some satellite services in specific areas under technical conditions.

Allocation in the 28 GHz Band

In the 28 GHz band, the 27.5 – 28.35 GHz spectrum range will follow a sharing model between mobile and satellite services. The 28.35 – 29.5 GHz spectrum range will be primarily allocated for satellite services, with the option to include some mobile use under technical conditions.

Also Read: Spark to Close Its 3G Network in New Zealand in Late 2025

Balancing Industry Demands

RSM says the decision takes into account the competing demands from both the mobile and satellite industries for spectrum use. The high-level allocation seeks to balance these interests by providing opportunities for both industries to access portions of the spectrum.