Lyttelton Port Company has introduced a private 5G network, delivered in partnership with 2degrees and Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions, as part of a digital transformation for the South Island’s largest port.
The port handled 434,000 containers in FY2025, alongside bulk cargo, cruise and fuel operations. Its location, surrounded by volcanic rock and stacked containers, has presented connectivity challenges across the site.
The new private 5G solution, implemented on site by 2degrees using Ericsson technology, provides secure and scalable wireless connectivity to support applications including mobile asset tracking, tele-remote control of heavy machinery and vehicles, job dispatching, safety alarms and live video streaming for security purposes.
Lyttelton Port Company chief information officer Jackie Dawson says the move is part of the port’s long-term digital strategy.
“LPC introduced private 5G to make operations safer, more reliable, and better connected,” Dawson says.
“We needed stronger network performance across the port so our teams and equipment could work without interruption.
“This supports our long-term digital plans and helps us run a safer, more efficient and more resilient port for our customers and our community.”
The port is using rugged Ericsson Cradlepoint routers on its straddle carriers, which connect primarily to the private 5G network. 2degrees’ public mobile network provides secondary backup, ensuring continuity if needed.
The company says the setup delivers reliable coverage across areas where Wi-Fi is limited and where fibre is slow, expensive or impractical to deploy.
2degrees chief business officer Andrew Fairgray says the project demonstrates how private 5G can address complex industrial connectivity needs.
“2degrees is committed to delivering world-class innovation that solves Kiwi business challenges. We are thrilled to have completed this landmark project for Lyttelton Port Company,” Fairgray says.
“By moving beyond the limitations of traditional connectivity, we’ve provided Lyttelton Port Company with a foundation for the future – one that ensures operational resilience and opens the door to next-generation automation.”
Fairgray says private 5G is increasingly being adopted internationally in sectors such as factories, warehouses, airports, mining and ports where low latency, fast data transmission and secure connectivity are critical.
Ericsson Enterprise Wireless Solutions head of private networks ANZ Ian Ross says private 5G provides “foundational infrastructure” for industrial environments.
“By delivering ultra-reliable, low-latency connectivity to every corner of a port, operators like Lyttelton Port Company can achieve unprecedented levels of digitalisation, asset visibility, and operational efficiency,” Ross says.
“We’re pleased to work with 2degrees and the Port to provide 5G connectivity solutions that enable streamlining of workflows, enhanced safety for workers, improved security, and optimisation in the movement of goods – ultimately enabling lower costs, faster turnaround times, and a more resilient supply chain.”
Lyttelton Port Company says it plans to expand its use of private 5G to connect environmental sensors for wind and stormwater monitoring, as well as drones used for inspections of containers, cranes and pavements, with data feeding into AI tools.
