Telecom New Zealand has announced that it is to partner with Alcatel-Lucent to deliver an Internet Protocol (IP) nationwide network that will integrate Telecom’s voice, Internet and mobile services onto one technology platform.

The contract is worth around $130 million and runs through to December 2009, by which time Telecom expects to be able to launch the first proof of concept products on the new network.

Alcatel-Lucent will partner with Telecom’s Technology and Shared Services division to build and implement the NGN, and will focus on the voice calling and broadband Internet components of the new national network.

The IP network compliments other transformation projects underway such as the company’s cabinetisation programme and its WCDMA mobile network upgrade. The development of an all IP network is also a component of Telecom’s undertakings on operational separation.