I've just received this press release:

CallPlus and Slingshot go mobile

From August, CallPlus and Slingshot customers will be able to buy mobile services directly from their favourite ISPs under a deal signed with Vodafone.

Customers will be able to use a CallPlus or Slingshot mobile on the Vodafone network, taking full advantage of New Zealand’s most popular 3G network.

CallPlus General Manager, Mark Callander says the launch of mobile services has been in planning for a long time, and follows CallPlus’ existing agreement to wholesale fixed line services on the Vodafone Red Network.

“Selecting the right partner has been a key focus, and Vodafone was a natural fit given the capability of their network and the relationship we have established,” says Callander.

 “The agreement will enable CallPlus and Slingshot to develop a unique range of mobile offerings which will add further value to our customer relationships. We have been speaking with our customers about mobile over the past few months, and we now have a clear understanding about what they want.”

Callander says while there is currently a lot of activity in the mobile market, he is confident that CallPlus and Slingshot will be able to cut through the noise.

“We stand out in the crowd already and we’ll continue to do so in the mobile market. It will be worth the wait for our customers as some of the initial product concepts are amazing.  Our current focus is on gaining an intimate understanding of the mobile market, and working closely with Vodafone through this process to ensure we hit the targeted launch date.” 
 
Vodafone’s GM of Wholesale Steve Rieger says he’s delighted to see such a strong telco like CallPlus come on board.

“The mobile marketplace has never been more dynamic and we’re thrilled to see CallPlus place its trust and its business with us. We’ve got a good working relationship with CallPlus in the fixed line world and I’m looking forward to extending that into the mobile world.”

The mobile services will be offered under both the CallPlus and Slingshot brands.