One New Zealand expands Nokia partnership for autonomous networks
One New Zealand is expanding its partnership with Nokia to accelerate autonomous network capabilities and AI-native operations. The agreement will combine Nokia software with consulting and research and development services to create a more integrated foundation for predictive, data-driven network management.
- One New Zealand selected Nokia's autonomous networks solutions.
- The deployment includes Nokia Assurance Center and Autonomous Networks Data Suite.
- Nokia will provide R&D co-creation and consulting services.
- The agreement supports progress toward TM Forum Level 3 and Level 4 capabilities.
- Open interfaces and on-premises options support control of data, models and operations.
Nokia tools will extend One New Zealand's network foundation
Under the agreement, One New Zealand will deploy Nokia Assurance Center and Autonomous Networks Data Suite. Nokia will also provide R&D co-creation and consulting services as the telecommunications provider develops its autonomous network operating model.
The deployment builds on One New Zealand's investments in Unified Inventory and Nokia Orchestration Center made in 2025. Nokia said the additional capabilities will bring different toolsets together in an increasingly integrated framework, supporting the operator's progress toward TM Forum Level 3 and Level 4 autonomous network capabilities.
The partnership targets predictive, controlled automation
Nokia said the deployment will establish a unified, trusted foundation that helps One New Zealand anticipate network conditions, make faster decisions and act before issues affect customers. The intended operating model is designed to support more predictive and consistent decisions as the operator expands its use of AI and automation.
Nokia's approach includes what it calls a “glass-box” model for autonomous networks. This gives operations teams visibility into what is happening, why decisions are made and how actions are governed. According to Nokia, that visibility is intended to help teams anticipate and resolve issues before customers are affected while automation expands progressively.
“The ambition for autonomous networks is no longer simply to automate more tasks,” said Shkumbin Hamiti, Head of Autonomous Networks at Nokia. Hamiti said the companies are working toward higher levels of autonomy with transparency and operational control aimed at improving network performance and customer experience.
Open interfaces support data and model sovereignty
The deployment will include open interfaces and on-premises deployment options. Nokia said these features will give One New Zealand flexibility to develop new AI and automation use cases while retaining sovereignty over its data, models and operational environment.
For One New Zealand, the agreement is the next stage of a transformation already underway. “Building greater autonomy into our network is a journey,” said Sharina Nisha, CTO of One New Zealand. She said the company is building a stronger foundation for predictive, data-driven operations and expanding its use of AI and automation to improve network performance and the experience delivered to customers.
The announcement supports Nokia's strategy of developing autonomous networks for the AI era. Nokia said networks will need to evolve from static infrastructure into programmable, AI-native platforms that can anticipate changing conditions, operate at machine speed and deliver deterministic performance. For One New Zealand, the partnership provides a stated path toward higher autonomy levels while keeping operational visibility and control in the deployment.
