2degrees and One NZ propose RAN sharing joint venture in New Zealand

New Zealand mobile carriers 2degrees and One NZ have proposed a joint venture that would combine their respective radio access networks (RAN), a move aimed at driving more efficient investment into mobile coverage expansion and accelerating the rollout of 5G and future technologies.

Under the proposal, the two companies would form a separate business entity, referred to as a RANCo, which would own, manage, and operate their radio access networks on behalf of both carriers. This would include RAN infrastructure such as antennas and base stations installed on cell towers across the country.

Despite the shared infrastructure, both companies would remain fully independent mobile network operators and continue to compete strongly across the New Zealand market. Each carrier would retain ownership and control of the parts of its mobile network that enable competition and differentiation, including spectrum management rights, core networks, fiber backhaul, and satellite capabilities.

The initiative is designed to improve network capacity, strengthen resilience, and speed up the deployment of next-generation technologies, including future 6G services. Network sharing has become increasingly common among telecom operators worldwide as carriers seek to build more efficient, cost-effective networks while limiting duplicate infrastructure.

The proposal comes as similar discussions unfold globally. This week in Switzerland, telecom operators Salt and Sunrise signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding to assess the viability of sharing network infrastructure in rural and less densely populated areas of the country.

“New Zealand can be a challenging country in which to build mobile networks. Sharing the infrastructure where it makes sense means we can deliver even more of the things that matter to customers: better coverage, greater capacity, stronger resilience and faster access to new technology,” said 2degrees CEO Mark Callander. “2degrees and One NZ will remain independent businesses, competing hard for customers on price, products, service and innovation.”

Nick Judd, CEO of One NZ, added: “This proposal would deliver real benefits for customers by enabling us to deliver better connectivity. This includes faster access to new technologies such as 6G and improving overall network resilience. It supports our sustainability goals by reducing duplication of equipment and lowering overall energy use over time.”

The joint venture is expected to complete in the first half of next year, subject to customary conditions and regulatory approvals. Industry analysts note that such partnerships are becoming a strategic priority for operators in geographically challenging markets, where infrastructure duplication is costly and environmental considerations are increasingly important.