Spark & Ericsson launch private 5G to boost NZ industry

Spark has introduced a new private 5G as-a-service offering in partnership with Ericsson to expand industrial connectivity options across New Zealand.

The telecommunications provider is promoting dedicated cellular networks that offer high-speed, low-latency, and secure wireless connectivity, specifically tailored for the diverse requirements of industrial environments such as warehousing, ports, airports, mining, and agribusiness sectors.

With mobile demonstration capability now available, Spark says it can showcase private 5G performance in operational settings, aiming to address the coverage and performance challenges some enterprises face with traditional Wi-Fi networks. The solution is intended to provide the reliability, bandwidth, and security necessary for the adoption of automation, real-time data analytics, artificial intelligence, and robotics in these sectors.

Network strategy

This latest development forms part of Spark's SPK30 strategy, which revolves around supporting New Zealand businesses with advanced connectivity to improve customer experiences and facilitate digital transformation.

Describing the aims behind the project, Liz Urquhart, Spark's General Manager of Business Products and Services, said:

"At the heart of our strategy is the goal of helping our business customers tackle complex challenges using technology. We're absolutely thrilled to embark on this journey, empowering New Zealand enterprises to unlock new efficiencies and drive innovation with private 5G."

Spark's mobile private 5G demonstration capability is expected to enable businesses to see directly how private 5G can support business-critical applications and contribute to operational efficiencies. The demonstration allows companies within the industrial sector to analyse applications and use cases relevant to their daily operations, including the automation of internal processes and enhancement of network security.

Collaboration with Ericsson

Spark's new private 5G service is delivered as part of a partnership with Ericsson, a company with a long history in providing mobile communication technology. The collaboration means Spark customers can access private 5G systems designed for enterprise use, with the added benefit of being able to manage the technology using their existing IT and network teams, without the need for new specialist mobile skills.

The demonstration capability is intended not only to illustrate the real-world performance of private 5G technology but also to address specific issues New Zealand businesses encounter with Wi-Fi in certain scenarios. These include instances where reliability or security are essential, and where better automation and data transmission are needed to enable organisational transformation.

Ludvig Landgren, Ericsson's Head of Australia & New Zealand, commented on the collaboration and its expected impact on the industrial sector:

"Ericsson is pleased to be partnering with Spark to accelerate digital transformation through private 5G networks. Private 5G is incredibly important for organisations embracing their digital journey, and it is an essential enabler for industrial organisations seeking to leverage digitalisation to create agility, enhance operations, and unlock deeper business intelligence. This technology will be essential for New Zealand enterprises to drive competitive advantage in local and global markets."

Industrial applications

Private 5G offers several distinct advantages for industries requiring reliable, high-bandwidth connectivity across large sites. These include the ability to support a growing number of connected devices, to enable real-time data transfer, and to deliver secure, scalable network access. In contrast to traditional Wi-Fi networks, private 5G is designed to deliver consistent performance even in physically challenging settings, such as warehouses with metal shelving, sprawling outdoor port facilities, or geographically dispersed mining operations.

By giving businesses access to a dedicated and secure wireless network, Spark and Ericsson believe private 5G can help organisations manage their transition toward automation and digital transformation, reduce downtime, and improve productivity. The companies say that access to private 5G can play a critical role in supporting emerging applications, such as automated guided vehicles, smart asset tracking, and predictive maintenance powered by Internet of Things (IoT) sensors.

The private 5G service and its demonstration capability are now available to New Zealand enterprises, and Spark reports it will continue to work with industry partners to identify business cases and further use opportunities for the technology.