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Radio Spectrum Management (RSM) in New Zealand is currently evaluating the potential utilization of the 24 – 30 GHz radio spectrum range. The purpose of this evaluation is to open up this spectrum to the market by 2026.

High-level allocation decisions have been reached by RSM for the use of this spectrum, with a focus on providing clarity to the mobile and satellite industries for their long-term planning. The cabinet has made a high-level allocation decision for the radio spectrum range of 24 – 30 GHz, aiming to provide certainty to these industries regarding the portions of the spectrum available for their use in the long term.

In the 26 GHz band, the 24.25 – 27.5 GHz spectrum range will be primarily allocated for mobile use, with the potential inclusion of some satellite services in specific areas under technical conditions.

In the 28 GHz band, the 27.5 – 28.35 GHz spectrum range will follow a sharing model between mobile and satellite services, while the 28.35 – 29.5 GHz spectrum range will be primarily allocated for satellite services, with the option to include some mobile use under technical conditions.

RSM is working towards making this spectrum available for long-term use by around May 2026. The process includes technical work, industry consultation, engagement with stakeholders, regulatory design, and further decision-making processes.

Satellite service providers with current licenses will be allowed to apply for extensions until May 2026 to continue providing services in New Zealand during the interim. Future decisions on the satellite licensing approach for long-term use are expected by May 2026. The details of these extensions will be discussed directly with the affected licensees prior to the current license’s expiry.

Any additional or new interim licenses for satellite services will be considered on a case-by-case basis, with strict criteria to ensure compatibility with the high-level allocation decision and to avoid prejudging future decisions. Similarly, requests for other usage, such as 5G fixed-term licenses, will be considered on a case-by-case basis with strict criteria in place.

The aim is to make the 24 – 30 GHz spectrum range available for long-term use by around May 2026. RSM expresses gratitude to those who provided feedback during the consultation process in 2021. For more information, visit the RSM website.

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