2degrees & Ericsson deploy private 5G at Lyttelton port

2degrees and Ericsson have completed a private 5G network deployment at Lyttelton Port Company, as the port expands wireless connectivity for operational systems and safety-critical applications.

The network covers the Lyttelton port site, a challenging radio environment where volcanic rock and stacked containers can block signals. The port supports container, bulk, cruise, and fuel operations, and handled 434,000 containers in FY2025.

The deployment uses Ericsson's private 5G technology, with 2degrees responsible for on-site implementation. The companies are positioning it as an option for industrial locations where Wi-Fi coverage is limited and fibre rollouts are difficult.

Port applications

The network will support mobile asset tracking, job dispatching, and safety alarms, and is designed to stream video from cameras used for safety and security.

It is also being used for tele-remote control of heavy machinery and vehicles, which demands higher reliability and faster response times than many office applications. In industrial environments, private 5G is increasingly being assessed for these uses, where coverage gaps or interference can disrupt operations.

"LPC introduced private 5G to make operations safer, more reliable, and better connected," said Jackie Dawson, Chief Information Officer, Lyttelton Port Company.

a"We needed stronger network performance across the port so our teams and equipment could work without interruption," Dawson said.

"This supports our long-term digital plans and helps us run a safer, more efficient, and more resilient port for our customers and our community," she said.

Network design

A key part of the deployment sits on vehicles used across the port estate. The port is using rugged Ericsson Cradlepoint routers on its straddle carriers, which connect to the private 5G network as the primary link.

The design also includes a secondary connection through 2degrees' public mobile network as a backup. This provides an alternative route if local coverage conditions change or a section of the private network becomes unavailable.

2degrees says the system extends connectivity into parts of the site that have been difficult to serve with Wi-Fi, reducing the need for additional fibre installation where deployment may be slow or impractical.

"2degrees is committed to delivering world-class innovation that solves Kiwi business challenges. We are thrilled to have completed this landmark project for Lyttelton Port Company," said Andrew Fairgray, Chief Business Officer, 2degrees.

"By moving beyond the limitations of traditional connectivity, we've provided Lyttelton Port Company with a foundation for the future-one that ensures operational resilience and opens the door to next-generation automation," he said.

Industrial focus

Ericsson describes private 5G as an infrastructure layer that can support a wide mix of connected devices across an industrial site. Ports often require wide-area coverage that reaches moving vehicles and equipment, along with predictable performance for safety processes, security monitoring, and operational coordination.

"Private 5G is a foundational infrastructure for modern industrial environments," said Ian Ross, Head of Private Networks ANZ, Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions.

"By delivering ultra-reliable, low-latency connectivity to every corner of a port, operators like Lyttelton Port Company can achieve unprecedented levels of digitalisation, asset visibility, and operational efficiency," Ross said.

"We're pleased to work with 2degrees and the port to provide 5G connectivity solutions that streamline workflows, enhance worker safety, improve security, and optimise the movement of goods-ultimately enabling lower costs, faster turnaround times, and a more resilient supply chain," he said.

Next steps

The port is assessing additional uses for the private 5G network, including connecting environmental sensors for wind and stormwater monitoring. It is also considering drones that feed data into AI tools and carry out inspections of containers, cranes, and pavements.

Fairgray expects other organisations in New Zealand to examine private 5G for business-critical operational areas, particularly where a dedicated network can provide device connectivity alongside data privacy.