1. Purpose

In July 2006, the Ministry of Economic Development (“the Ministry”) consulted on Spectrum Allocations for Broadband Wireless Access (BWA). Industry and other stakeholders identified the 70-90 GHz band as a candidate for broadband wireless access use in New Zealand as it can provide a cost-effective way to extend fibre optic networks.

In 2008, the Ministry published a discussion paper entitled “High Capacity Short-Haul Point-to-Point Linking in the 70-90 GHz Band” for consultation in detail on the optimal spectrum management framework to provide access to the 70-90 GHz band. The consultation focussed on soliciting industry opinion on the most suitable spectrum allocations, technology standards/operating parameters and licensing arrangements.

This paper summarises the submissions received, draws conclusions and recommendations and outlines the next steps in the spectrum allocation and assignment process.