WELLINGTON: One New Zealand on Thursday announced a proposal to combine its radio access network infrastructure with that of 2degrees in a jointly owned wholesale business, a move the companies say would improve efficiency while preserving competition.
The proposed entity, operating under the holding name RANCo, would own, manage and operate the shared RAN infrastructure and provide network services back to each company through separate wholesale agreements. The arrangement would cover active equipment on mobile sites, including electronics and antennas.
One NZ and 2degrees currently have a commercial RAN sharing arrangement for a smaller number of sites nationwide. Similar infrastructure-sharing models exist through the Rural Connectivity Group and mobile tower companies Fortysouth and Connexa.
Nick Judd, incoming One NZ chief executive, said the proposal would enable faster deployment of new technologies such as 6G and improve overall network resilience.
“It also gives us a more efficient platform for long-term network investment, allowing capital to be directed to the areas where One NZ can deliver the greatest differentiation and value for customers,” Judd said in a statement.
The companies said the model would make more efficient use of existing infrastructure, reduce unnecessary duplication and lower overall energy use over time, supporting sustainability goals.
One NZ and 2degrees would continue to operate as independent retail and wholesale businesses and compete for consumer and business customers, the companies said. One NZ would retain ownership of its spectrum management rights, core networks, fibre backhaul assets and satellite innovations.
The proposal is subject to approvals from the New Zealand Commerce Commission and the Overseas Investment Office, as well as reorganization steps. The transaction is aiming for completion in the first half of 2027.
