Auction Success will Bring Network Development

19 December, 2007

Auction Success will Bring Network Development

Successful broadband spectrum bidder Woosh says it can now get on with plans to further develop its place as New Zealand's third wireless network operator.

Woosh was one of the successful bidders in the Ministry of Economic Development's spectrum auction which ended yesterday and says it now has the spectrum it needs to plan for a nationwide wireless network.

Woosh CEO Kevin Wiley said the auction success was just what the company needed to firm-up its strategy for a Wi-MAX network for New Zealand.

"We can provide true competition in the market on our own network," says Mr Wiley. "The MED and Minister David Cunliffe have run a good process through this auction and as a result competitors like Woosh will be able to advance broadband services and competition in New Zealand.

"This latest auction provides us with sufficient spectrum to further develop and enhance our existing network. In the future there will be a need for more spectrum to offer robust, cost effective services and I'm hopeful the Government will consider that prior to 2012 when the spectrum caps are removed.

Mr Wiley said Woosh would look to further expand its network and attract the funding necessary to build a competitive next generation broadband wireless network.

"Building a long-term telecommunications network takes both time and money and we've spent more than five years positioning our business for a cost effective and robust competitive future. Wi-MAX is clearly the next generation and we are keeping a close on eye on development with a view to bringing proven and mature technology to the New Zealand market around the end of this decade.

"Securing this spectrum allows us to firm up our plans to introduce more New Zealanders to the benefits of reliable wireless internet access."

ENDS

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