Wedoany.com Report on Mar 2nd, Lyttelton Port Company (LPC), the largest port on New Zealand's South Island, has launched a private 5G network. This initiative, implemented in collaboration with telecommunications operator 2degrees and Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions, aims to drive the port's digital upgrade.
The port handled 434,000 containers in the 2025 financial year and is involved in bulk cargo, cruise, and fuel operations. Traditional network connectivity faced challenges due to the site being surrounded by volcanic rock and densely stacked containers. The newly deployed private 5G network, utilizing Ericsson technology, provides secure, scalable wireless connectivity. It supports applications such as mobile asset tracking, remote control of heavy equipment, job scheduling, safety alerts, and real-time video surveillance.
Jackie Dawson, Chief Information Officer at Lyttelton Port Company, noted that this move is a key part of the port's long-term digital strategy.
"LPC introduced private 5G to enhance operational safety, reliability, and connection quality," Dawson said.
"We need to deliver consistent network performance across the entire port to ensure our teams and equipment can operate efficiently and continuously.
"This helps achieve our long-term digital goals and creates a safer, more efficient, and resilient port for our customers and community."
The port has installed ruggedized Ericsson Cradlepoint routers on straddle carriers. These primarily connect to the private 5G network, with 2degrees' public mobile network serving as a backup to ensure uninterrupted connectivity. This configuration provides reliable coverage in areas with weak Wi-Fi signals or where fiber deployment is difficult.
Andrew Fairgray, Chief Business Officer at 2degrees, emphasized that the project demonstrates the value of private 5G in complex industrial environments.
"2degrees is committed to solving connectivity challenges for New Zealand businesses through innovation. We are thrilled to partner with Lyttelton Port Company on this significant project," Fairgray said.
"By overcoming traditional network limitations, we have laid the foundation for the port's future—a foundation that enhances operational resilience and supports automation."
Fairgray stated that private 5G technology is being widely adopted globally in industries such as factories, warehouses, airports, mining, and ports to meet the needs for low latency, high-speed data transfer, and secure connectivity.
Ian Ross, Head of Private Networks for Australia and New Zealand at Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions, believes private 5G provides core support for industrial scenarios.
"By providing high-reliability, low-latency connectivity to every area of the port, operators like Lyttelton Port Company can achieve higher levels of digitization, asset visibility, and operational efficiency," Ross said.
"We are delighted to partner with 2degrees and the port to provide a 5G connectivity solution that streamlines workflows, improves worker safety, and optimizes cargo movement—ultimately reducing costs, speeding up turnaround, and strengthening the supply chain."
Lyttelton Port Company plans to further expand its private 5G applications. This includes connecting environmental sensors to monitor wind and rain data, and using drones to inspect containers, cranes, and road surfaces. The data collected will be fed into AI tools for analysis.
