WELLINGTON, Dec. 16 (Xinhua) -- The New Zealand government has given the go-ahead to enable further development of 5G networks by making appropriate spectrum available.

File photo: Xinhua

The Broadcasting, Communications and Digital Media Minister Kris Faafoi, confirmed on Monday Cabinet approval for the allocation of short-term rights to an unused portion of 3.5 GHz spectrum.

The 3.5 GHz is the first spectrum band to be allocated for high speed 5G data services, Faafoi said, adding short-term rights will run from mid-2020 to Oct. 31, 2022.

"Early access to this spectrum will allow the telecommunications industry to move forward in their development and deployment of 5G services now, rather than waiting until long-term rights are switched on in November 2022," Faafoi said. "5G offers significantly improved data speed and capacity for conventional mobile and fixed wireless broadband networks, and will enable the next wave of productivity and innovation across multiple sectors."

"Progressing with 5G will ensure New Zealand keeps pace with global developments, give us world-class connectivity, and provide a platform for exciting new applications which can improve future livelihoods and ways of life," he said.