One NZ gets go-ahead for field testing link to SpaceX mobile satellite service

One New Zealand will soon test its partnership with a US satellite network owned by Elon Musk to improve mobile coverage for customers.

In a statement the company formerly known as Vodafone said it now has legal permission to begin field testing the direct link to a mobile satellite service run by SpaceX.

Chief executive Jason Paris said 40 percent of the country has no mobile coverage due to its unique geography.

But SpaceX technology could overcome those constraints to keep customers better connected, particularly in a natural disaster, he said.

"When we announced our collaboration with SpaceX, we were dealing with the aftermath of Cyclone Gabrielle, a stark reminder of the necessity of a resilient backup to our mobile network, which can be disrupted by climate-related, fibre and power outages.

"We're unfortunately seeing this play out with Hurricane Milton in Florida right now, where Starlink satellites with direct-to-cell capability are playing a vital role keeping people connected as the extreme weather has disrupted their ground based mobile networks. That's why starting testing here is a giant step forward on our mission to bring coverage like never before to New Zealand."

The new service will be tested on a variety of mobile phones in different locations before the official rollout plan is finalised.

Previously One NZ claimed and advertised the SpaceX partnership would allow for 100 percent mobile coverage across the country and eliminate any blackspots.

The Commerce Commission asked the company to stop the advertising, saying it was misleading because it did not make clear there would be limitations to the service.