Telecom New Zealand targets 100-Gbps backbone fiber-optic network via Alcatel-Lucent

Telecom New Zealand will use optical transport equipment from Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) to create a converged 100-Gbps fiber-optic network that will connect more than 30 cities nationwide. Among other uses, the new capabilities will support the introduction of a retail fiber product under the New Zealand government’s “Ultra-Fast Broadband” initiative.

The IP/optical network should be operational by the middle of this year.

“Alcatel-Lucent has been a longstanding, trusted supplier to Telecom New Zealand throughout our networks,” according to Telecom New Zealand CTO David Havercroft. “We chose their 100G coherent optical transport network based on the best combination of technology capability, commercial terms, in-country support, and proven ability to deliver a large and critical project.”

The Ultra-Fast Broadband Initiative was launched in 2012 and will use fiber to the home/building (FTTH/FTTB) technology to bring fiber broadband services to homes, businesses, and anchor institutions. However, there has been some concern about take rates in the initial stages (see "New Zealand UFB roll out ahead of schedule but take rates lag").

“The Ultra-Fast Broadband Initiative’ is a critical project that will benefit all of New Zealand,” said Andrew Miller, managing director of Alcatel-Lucent in New Zealand. “Our optical offering, which is unique in the industry and proven in the global market, will dramatically expand the capacity and advanced business services, helping ensure the best experience possible for Telecom’s customers accessing high-bandwidth services over the nationwide network.”

For more information on optical transport systems and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.