Huawei wins 4G contract from NZ telco

China's Huawei Technologies Co has won a contract to build 4G mobile network infrastructure in New Zealand as it continues its expansion overseas despite problems in the US and Australia.

Telecom Corp of New Zealand said yesterday it selected Huawei because of the Chinese telecommunications equipment maker's capability and credentials in network development and also because it's "at least 18 months ahead" of other technology providers in 4G.

"Huawei's selection was based on two main factors. The first is that they have extensive experience, having built 73 LTE (long-term evolution) networks in 42 countries. The second is that they are truly pushing the boundaries of LTE technology" David Havercroft, chief technology officer at the New Zealand telco, said.

The telco said the 4G LTE will go live in Auckland by October and extend coverage to Wellington and Christchurch by Christmas.

Also yesterday, Shenzhen-based Huawei said it has completed the world's first advanced LTE active antenna system on trial for Deutsche Telekom in Germany.

Privately-held Huawei, which is targeting a 10 percent compound annual growth over the next five years, has been gaining market share from Europe to Africa and in Asia.