1. Introduction

On 31 May 2007 the Minister of Communications, Hon David Cunliffe, announced that the Government would auction management rights to radio spectrum in the 2.3 GHz and 2.5 GHz bands in December 2007.
The Minister noted that the auction would make spectrum available for nationwide and regional wireless services, including WiMAX. He said that the combined auction would provide greater certainty for investment in broadband wireless services and deliver on the Government’s commitment to fast-track the roll-out of advanced broadband services to New Zealanders.
The Minister also announced that a discussion paper on design issues would be released for consultation by August 2007.
This discussion paper fulfils that undertaking. It covers:

Background, including cabinet decisions, current government policy on spectrum allocation, and technical descriptions of available spectrum
Considerations regarding lot design
Proposed lot design options
Terms and conditions relating to management rights
Proposed allocation procedures and usage rights for managed spectrum parks.
Transition planning for incumbent licence holders in the 2.5 GHz band.

1.1 Submissions