As Vodafone New Zealand prepares to launch its 5G network, the company has teamed up with Wellington Airport to offer travellers a chance to try 5G speeds for free.
From this week, travellers passing through Wellington Airport can try out 5G speeds for themselves by connecting to a Nokia FastMile 5G Gateway device.
“We wanted to give travellers the chance to try out our live 5G network before we officially switch it on across parts of the country," says Vodafone New Zealand technology director Tony Baird.
"This free trial to test 5G over Wi-Fi will enable passengers to download their favourite content at super-fast speeds.
“We are proud to be the first provider to open up 5G for anyone to test, and are looking forward to turning on our commercial 5G network very soon.”
The free trial will last for one week – until December 9 – and allow up to five users to connect to the 5G-wireless device for five minutes at a time.
“We expect people will be able to download a TV show potentially up to 10 times faster than they could over a 4G connection, or load a web page almost instantly over 5G without buffering or lag. This means they’ll have plenty of time to download an episode of their favourite TV series to watch on their flight," says Tony.
“Fixed wireless access is a key use case of 5G, so we’re pleased to show Kiwis the potential that exists.”
Due to its faster speeds, low latency and increased capacity, 5G is able to support smart airports as well as better connected cars, businesses, schools and homes.
“We’re always looking for ways to enhance the experience for travellers and having access to a fast and reliable mobile connection is becoming ever more important, especially for business travellers looking to stay in touch with colleagues, customers and suppliers," says Wellington Airport spokesperson Greg Thomas.
“We’re pleased to partner with Vodafone to offer Wellington Airport visitors the chance to try 5G before the network is officially switched on.”
To get a taste of real 5G speeds, users need to have a Wi-Fi enabled device and be near the 5G stand located in the centre of the main terminal opposite gate 18. They simply connect to ‘Free 5G WLG’ with the password ‘Vodafone5G’ – and will be logged off after five minutes so another traveller can give it a go before their flight.
Vodafone New Zealand will soon be launching 5G in parts of Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown.
