Introduction

1. Fixed wireless access is a method of delivering broadband Internet and telephony to consumers and (usually small) businesses in competition with existing copper cable networks.

2. In December 2001, after an extensive consultation process, Cabinet agreed that the Crown should create and retain in Crown management rights for two 3.5GHz blocks suitable for fixed wireless access use. Licences in these retained blocks are to be made available for specific geographic areas.

3. The two 3.5GHz spectrum blocks can allow reasonable coverage throughout the country for fixed wireless access, but are limited relative to the capacity in privately managed 3.5GHz spectrum and other spectrum bands.

4. The Ministry released draft allocation proposals for the Crown-managed spectrum for comment in late March 2004 (ISBN 0-478-26367-8). Comments were requested by 30 April 2004. A summary of submissions was released in July 2004.

5. Cabinet has now agreed to allocation objectives and an allocation plan for the Crown-managed spectrum.