We're a step closer to having 5G technology on our shores

The auction for short-term, early access rights in the 5G spectrum has been cancelled due to covid-19.

That means registered bidders Dense Air, Spark and 2degrees have been offered parts of the available spectrum.

Spark's 5G innovation lead Renee Mateparae says it could boost our struggling economy.

She says research shows the impact could add as much as 8.9 billion dollars a year to the New Zealand economy.