CentrePort has delivered its first major operational application of its private 5G network, enhancing connectivity for frontline staff across container handling operations.
Following the rollout of the network late last year, the port’s digital and engineering teams installed 5G-enabled Peplink modems on reach stackers, empty container handlers and fully electric internal movement vehicles (IMVs), enabling faster and more reliable access to operational systems across the terminal.
Anthony Delaney, Chief Executive of CentrePort, said: “Our people used to have issues coordinating container movements around the port. They’d come up with workarounds that weren’t ideal, like using radios to pass on container movement information because the public 4G network was unreliable and prone to dropouts or dead zones, created by the very containers they were working with.
“Now, our operators can access CentrePort systems through onboard tablets and keep the radios clear for health and safety purposes, which is what they’re meant to do.”
He added that reduced radio congestion has improved the clarity of safety-critical communications. The network was developed in partnership with Tū Ātea, a Māori telecommunications spectrum provider.
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The initial deployment included high-power 5G radio transceivers and antennas mounted on existing port infrastructure, providing coverage across key operational zones. Data is transmitted via fibre optic links into Tū Ātea’s cloud-based network core.
Early performance testing has indicated stable connectivity with no reported dropouts, alongside improved data transmission speeds and more efficient use of radio channels for safety communications rather than operational instructions.
The first phase of deployment is now set to expand further across port assets. Plans include installing 5G-enabled modems on 13 reefer towers to support monitoring of refrigerated cargo and energy management systems.
CentrePort is also preparing a trial integrating 5G connectivity with its CCTV infrastructure, aimed at delivering continuous visual coverage to support port-wide safety and operational oversight.
According to CentrePort, the initial results suggest the private 5G network will serve as a scalable platform for broader digitalisation across terminal operations, improving connectivity wherever operational gaps are identified.
For more information:
CentrePort – https://www.centreport.co.nz/
