The New Zealand government has agreed to a final auction design for radio spectrum in the 2.3GHz and 2.5GHz bands, according to the country’s Communications and IT Minister David Cunliffe. The move represents another key step towards the roll-out of wireless broadband access services to all New Zealanders, according to Cunliffe. The move also follows decisions at the World Radio Assembly and consideration of public feedback. The spectrum design includes four nationwide blocks, suitable for WiMAX operators which, in combination with the managed spectrum park, allows for a total of six or more service providers in an area; four further nationwide blocks, suitable for either advanced mobile cellular services, or additional WiMAX type use; an acquisition limit per bidder of 40MHz; a managed spectrum park for regional and local users with a total of 45MHz of spectrum; and opportunities for Maori to participate in the knowledge economy through a nationwide spectrum block which will be held for a non-contestable allocation at a fixed price to a M?ori representative group, as determined by the Minister of Maori Affairs. The auction is expected to start on 11 December.

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