News: 2degrees: New Zealand’s 3rd mobile network launched

New Zealand’s third mobile phone network has been given a name and expected launch date, but if you are after more details you will just have to wait. 2degrees is the name of the new network, and it is the brand that NZ Communications revealed yesterday.

Over $250 million has been spent building the 2G and 3G network that is HSPA+ capable. The 2degrees network uses technology from one of the world’s leading mobile network providers, Huawei. It is capable of running on 900MHZ, 1800MHZ and 2100MHZ frequencies. The company says its network will be going live sometime in August.

2degrees CEO Mike Reynolds says “New Zealanders have been at the rough end of the stick for far too long.

“Our research tells us that Kiwis are tired of being locked into lengthy contracts and being stung with high prices to call friends on competing networks. They want to take back control of how much they spend and who they call”, said Mike Reynolds.

“2degrees is dedicated to bringing real value to New Zealand mobile phone users. You can choose a new 022 number or you can keep your current phone number, meaning minimal fuss when switching to 2degrees. With coverage to 97% of New Zealanders, I’m sure 2degrees will be as least as good as anything Kiwis currently experience, and more importantly, much better value.”

We wait with baited breath to see what stink Vodafone and Telecom kick up when 2degrees launch date arrives.