Spark switches on Auckland 5G

Focus on IoT

Spark switched on 5G mobile in limited parts of Auckland. This is, in effect, an extension of and opening up of the private 5G network built to support Team New Zealand in the run up to the America’s Cup.

For the launch, Spark emphasises the internet of things and a partnership with Auckland Transport. Its media announcement mentions 5G phone coverage almost as an afterthought.

Spark’s initial 5G network footprint is small. It covers the downtown areas of Britomart, the Viaduct, Commercial Bay and the Wynyard Quarter. There is also coverage in Takapuna on the North Shore.

Smart lighting

The IoT roll out includes 5G connected smart lighting around part of the Wynyard Quarter. This maps foot traffic giving Auckland Transport information to better plan future infrastructure investments.

Spark’s 5G network connects High definition closed circuit TV surveillance cameras to watch for criminal activity.

Elsewhere Spark is using its LoraWan IoT network for parking sensors, benches with charging ports and rubbish bins that call contractors when they need emptying.

Spark’s network uses Nokia’s AirScale radio technology. This includes NetAct which manages the radio and core networks. Nokia is providing Spark with network planning and support to optimise 5G performance.

Spark builds trans-Tasman IoT network with NNNCo

Spark has signed a trans-Tasman internet of things network agreement with the National Narrowband Network Co (NNNCo), an Australian IoT service provider. The pair offer mutual access across their LoRaWan networks allowing businesses to work without the need for operations in both countries.

New Zealand joins Five Eyes encryption call

New Zealand joined its Five Eyes security partners, Japan and India to call on social media companies to provide access to encrypted data. While acknowledging the importance of encryption, the group says it can pose risks to public safety. They say they don’t want full access but the right to gain information and assistance when governments demonstrate reasonable cause to suspect criminal offending.

Sky Television plans broadband trials, New Year launch

Media reports of Sky Television’s annual general meeting say the company expects to trial its broadband service in the next six weeks. A full launch is planned for early in the New Year. CEO Martin Stewart told investors a mobile phone service is “just a matter of time”.

InternetNZ advisory panel calls for greater security

An advisory panel review has recommended IntenetNZ increases security requirements on .NZ domain name sellers. Sue Chetwin, who chaired the panel says: “The panel has offered a vision for the future of .nz, that will reflect New Zealand’s diverse multicultural society, keep the domain name space open and accessible, and enable InternetNZ to respond and adapt to online harms and security threats”.