2degrees continues 4G network rollout

2degrees' 4G network now reaches almost 60% of the New Zealand population, following the second stage of the telco's 4G rollout.

The rollout complements 2degrees' national 3G coverage of more than 97% of the population, including a network of more than 900 cell sites.

Last year, 2degrees brought 4G coverage to various New Zealand cities and towns, starting with Auckland, central Wellington, central Christchurch, Hamilton, Tauranga CBD and Mount Maunganui.

After extending coverage this year, 2degrees' 4G network now includes greater Tauranga, Ashburton, Blenheim, Dunedin, Feilding, Gisborne, Hastings, Katikati, Kihikihi, Levin, Napier, Palmerston North, Queenstown, Rangiora, Rotorua, Te Awamutu, Whangamata South, Whanganui and Whangarei.

Mike Davies, 2degrees' chief technology officer, says 2degrees has steadily rolled out 4G to the regions this year with a focus on delivering 4G network services to areas where demand is greatest and more towns will follow.

"The second stage of our rollout has been delivered and demand for 4G data is strong with 4G customers using 70% more data on average compared to those using 3G.

"We're continuing our 4G rollout across the country and new 2degrees customers can expect fantastic service and high data speeds," says Davies.

2degrees will continue its 4G rollout with a further eight areas to come online by early 2016 including greater Christchurch, Cambridge, Huntly, Kapiti, Masterton, Motueka, Oamaru and Whakatane.

These areas will bring 2degrees' 4G population coverage to almost 70%.

Access to 2degrees' 4G network is at no additional cost and operates with all existing 2degrees customers' data allocations.