The New Zealand mobile operator 2degrees has switched on its first 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) services, covering over 72 cell sites in the capital, Auckland, reports Telegeography.com.

The firm expects to expand its 4G footprint to Christchurch, Wellington and Hamilton by the end of the year, as well as triple its coverage in Auckland. Rival operators Vodafone NZ and Telecom NZ both started 4G services last year.