Get ready: 3G is shutting down this year.
As the 4G and 5G rollout across Aotearoa increases momentum, it’s now time to look ahead and prepare to farewell our old 3G network.
From the end of December 2025, you’ll be able to access 4G (or use 5G, where it’s available) everywhere that you currently access 3G, and then we will shut down our 3G network.
Everything you do now with 3G will become significantly better on 4G, and even more so on 5G! There's still plenty of time to make the move, though, and we'll be with you every step of the way.
Note: If you make any voice calls over the One NZ 2G/3G networks, you will hear a short message about the network shutdown before your call connects. You may hear this even if your phone usually makes successful calls on our 4G/5G networks. For more information, please see the FAQ below.
What can I do now?
Free TXT 3G to 550
- TXT 3G to 550 from your phone and you will receive a TXT confirmation on how your phone is affected and what you need to do to be ready for the 3G shutdown (if anything!).
- Using this SMS service is optional. However, please note that if you do not have a compatible phone, you will no longer be able to use it once the 3G network is shut down.
- If you’re unsure about what your responses mean and to understand how we will use your number when you TXT the SMS checker, check out the FAQs below.
Check that you can make 4G calls - or 5G calls.
- Firstly, the most important thing is to check whether your phone can make mobile voice calls using 4G or 5G, also called “VoLTE”.
- Most smartphones have this capability except for older ones and there are some others that will work in NZ but not when you visit countries that have also shutdown their 3G networks.
- Check your phone's VoLTE capability on our devices list.
Check your phone’s software and VoLTE settings.
- If your phone has VoLTE support then great, but we’d still recommend that you make sure you have enabled your phone’s latest software update.
- For Android phones: Go to Settings > Software Update
- For iPhones (iOS): Go to Settings > General > Software Update
- Then check that 4G/5G data is enabled in your phone settings as well as 4G voice calling/VoLTE.
- Head to your mobile network settings and switch the 4G/VoLTE calling toggle to “On"
- For Android phones: Go to Settings > Connections > Mobile networks > VoLTE calls enabled
- For iPhone (iOS) This is usually already enabled for most iPhones: Go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Options > Voice & Data (ensure 4G or 5G is “On”)
- VoLTE roaming capabilities will be important depending on your travel destination. Most of our overseas roaming partners are shutting down their 3G networks.
Enabling WiFi Calling may help further
WiFi Calling lets you make and receive calls over WiFi when there’s a weak mobile phone signal, either in New Zealand or overseas. WiFi Calling is free for One NZ customers to use. Find out if your phone is capable and how to enable this for a better calling experience.
Phone not listed on our VoLTE capable list.
Using a 2G or 3G phone. You won’t be able to make calls, send TXTs, or use mobile data after the shutdown. Upgrade to a 4G or 5G device to stay connected.
Have an older 4G phone. If it only makes calls over 3G, you’ll need to upgrade to continue making voice and emergency calls.
Using a 4G/5G phone not approved by One NZ. It may still work, but we recommend updating your software and enabling 4G/5G data and VoLTE in your settings. For full compatibility, consider switching to an approved model.
Options for upgrading a 3G phone.
- If you have a One NZ pay monthly mobile plan, consider buying a new phone interest-free. Check out your phone options.
- If you have a One NZ prepay plan, check out the range of capable phones to find one that's right for you.
Are you a Business customer?
Find out how switching off 3G will affect you.
Frequently asked questions
Network and coverage
Why are you shutting down the 3G network?
The 3G network uses older technology, which has been surpassed by the arrival of 4G and 5G that use newer, more power-efficient technologies that also have more capability.
With a limited number of radio frequencies available to us, like other mobile network providers around the world, we're reallocating this resource toward the 5G network rollout and expanding our 5G coverage for more New Zealanders.
To see if 4G or 5G are already available in your area, simply use our network coverage map.
With a limited number of radio frequencies available to us, like other mobile network providers around the world, we're reallocating this resource toward the 5G network rollout and expanding our 5G coverage for more New Zealanders.
To see if 4G or 5G are already available in your area, simply use our network coverage map.
When will the 3G network be switched off?
The 3G network will be switched off next year on 31 December 2025.
Why am I hearing a message about the 3G network shutdown when I make a call?
You are hearing this message because you are currently using our 2G or 3G network to make your phone calls. One NZ is planning to shut down these networks from December 2025 to focus on providing better and more reliable 4G and 5G services. This shutdown is necessary to improve the overall quality of our network and to support the latest technology and services. If you happen to make a voice call in one of the very few remaining 3G-only areas, you will hear this message - all of these areas will have 4G coverage before the 3G networks are shut down.
Alternatively, while the 3G network is still active, it can occasionally be used when 4G temporarily switches over. However, these fallback mechanisms will be phased out as we approach the 3G shutdown.
To ensure your phone is working correctly and to find out how to stay connected, please free TXT '3G' to 550."
Alternatively, while the 3G network is still active, it can occasionally be used when 4G temporarily switches over. However, these fallback mechanisms will be phased out as we approach the 3G shutdown.
To ensure your phone is working correctly and to find out how to stay connected, please free TXT '3G' to 550."
What happens if I don't upgrade my mobile before December 2025?
If you don't upgrade your phone to one fully capable with 4G before the 3G network switches off, your phone will fall back to our older 2G network - but only until the end of 2025, when 2G will also be switched off.
The 2G network provides an inferior experience, with very slow data speeds, low call quality and less network coverage around Aotearoa. Then, when the 2G network shuts down at the end of 2025, your phone will stop working altogether on our network.
The 2G network provides an inferior experience, with very slow data speeds, low call quality and less network coverage around Aotearoa. Then, when the 2G network shuts down at the end of 2025, your phone will stop working altogether on our network.
What services will be affected when 3G switches off?
This will depend on the type of phone or wireless modem that you have.
Most 4G/5G phones will work fine but there are a couple of things to bear in mind:
Some wireless modems for wireless and rural broadband will be impacted and we will contact you directly to outline your options here.
Most 4G/5G phones will work fine but there are a couple of things to bear in mind:
- You may need to ensure you have downloaded and installed the latest phone updates and then enabled 4G/5G data and 4G/5G voice calling (also called “VoLTE” in your phone settings).
- Some older 4G phones may not work for 4G/VoLTE voice calling although 4G data and text/SMS will probably continue to work. Again, ensure you have downloaded and installed the latest phone updates and then enabled 4G/5G data and 4G/5G voice calling (also called “VoLTE” in your phone settings).
Some wireless modems for wireless and rural broadband will be impacted and we will contact you directly to outline your options here.
What should I do if I can't connect to the 4G network in my area?
You can check if 4G is available in your area on this map. If 4G is available and you have a 4G/5G phone, then make sure you have downloaded and installed the latest phone updates and then enabled 4G/5G data and 4G/5G voice calling (also called “VoLTE” in your phone settings).
What if my area only offers 3G right now?
99% of where Kiwis work and live can already connect to One NZ’s 4G and 5G networks. By 31 December 2025, we will have rolled out 4G to everywhere we currently have 3G.
WiFi Calling may be able to help you
Many of our 4G and 5G phones support WiFi Calling – also known as Voice over WiFi (VoWiFi). This will allow you to make a voice call over WiFi from anywhere in the world you can get a WiFi connection. Check in your Mobile settings that “WiFi Calling” or “VoWiFi” is enabled.
Visit this page to learn more and see if your phone supports this feature.
Visit this page to learn more and see if your phone supports this feature.
Will my phone work for the upcoming Starlink Satellite to Mobile service?
The One NZ Satellite TXT service is available on a range of eligible phones, with more becoming eligible over the coming months. Customers will receive a TXT message notifying them that they have the service.
Phones purchased outside of New Zealand (including parallel imports) may not be compatible.
Our list of eligible phones will be updated as more phones complete testing, however it is likely that older 4G phones that don’t support 4G/5G voice calling (VoLTE) and VoLTE roaming will also not work on the One NZ Satellite TXT service – another reason we recommend upgrading to a compatible phone.
See full list of One NZ Satellite compatible phones here.
Phones purchased outside of New Zealand (including parallel imports) may not be compatible.
Our list of eligible phones will be updated as more phones complete testing, however it is likely that older 4G phones that don’t support 4G/5G voice calling (VoLTE) and VoLTE roaming will also not work on the One NZ Satellite TXT service – another reason we recommend upgrading to a compatible phone.
See full list of One NZ Satellite compatible phones here.
What is the Internet of Things (IoT)?
IoT (Internet of Things) is a network of devices that connect to the internet to collect and share data. These devices can be anything from smartwatches and home security cameras to industrial sensors and farm equipment.
In simple terms, IoT allows everyday objects to "talk" to each other and to us, helping automate tasks, improve efficiency, and provide useful insights. For example, a smart fridge can track food expiry dates, or a GPS tracker in a vehicle can help businesses monitor deliveries in real time.
Internet of Things Examples
You likely use IoT devices every day. The list below outlines a few examples of IoT in action across our everyday lives and industries:
1. Health Monitoring & Medical Devices
2. Smart Homes
3. Smart Buildings
4. Smart Construction
5. Lone Worker Safety
6. Connected Vehicles & Logistics
7. Smart Cities & Infrastructure
8. Agriculture & Farming
In simple terms, IoT allows everyday objects to "talk" to each other and to us, helping automate tasks, improve efficiency, and provide useful insights. For example, a smart fridge can track food expiry dates, or a GPS tracker in a vehicle can help businesses monitor deliveries in real time.
Internet of Things Examples
You likely use IoT devices every day. The list below outlines a few examples of IoT in action across our everyday lives and industries:
1. Health Monitoring & Medical Devices
- Smartwatches & Fitness Trackers (e.g., Apple Watch, Fitbit) – Monitor heart rate, sleep, and activity, alerting users to potential health issues.
- Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM) – Devices track blood pressure, glucose levels, or heart rhythms and send real-time data to doctors for early intervention.
2. Smart Homes
- Smart Thermostats – Learn your schedule and adjust temperature to save energy.
- Security Cameras & Doorbells (e.g., Ring, Arlo) – Allow homeowners to monitor and communicate with visitors remotely.
- Smart Appliances – Fridges that track food expiry or washing machines that notify you when a cycle is done.
3. Smart Buildings
- Automated Lighting & HVAC – Sensors adjust lighting and temperature based on occupancy to save energy.
- Leak & Air Quality Sensors – Detect leaks, smoke, or poor air quality to improve safety and reduce maintenance costs.
4. Smart Construction
- IoT Enabled Equipment Monitoring – Sensors on heavy machinery track usage, predict maintenance needs, and reduce downtime.
- Wearable Safety Gear – Smart helmets and vests monitor workers' location and detect falls or fatigue to enhance safety.
- Smart Concrete Sensors – Measure temperature and moisture levels to optimise curing and improve building quality.
5. Lone Worker Safety
- Wearable Panic Buttons – Employees in remote areas can send emergency alerts with GPS location if they need help.
- Fall Detection Devices – Smart sensors detect sudden falls and automatically trigger an alert for assistance.
6. Connected Vehicles & Logistics
- Fleet Tracking – GPS and sensors help businesses monitor trucks, optimise routes, and reduce fuel costs.
- Smart Cars – Some vehicles diagnose mechanical issues and alert the driver or even call emergency services in an accident.
7. Smart Cities & Infrastructure
- Traffic Management – Sensors in roads and traffic lights help reduce congestion.
- Smart Streetlights – Adjust brightness based on movement to save energy.
8. Agriculture & Farming
- Soil Sensors – Monitor moisture levels and optimize irrigation.
- Smart Livestock Tags – Track animal health and location, reducing losses.
Mobiles and devices
Will my phone still work?
This will depend on the type of phone that you have.
Most 4G/5G phones will work fine but there are a couple of things to bear in mind:
3G-only phones tend to be quite old now. For example, iPhone 4S supported 2G and 3G networks, and iPhone 5 was the first iPhone model to support 4G data.
iPhone 6 was the first to use 4G for voice calls. So any iPhone model newer than iPhone 6 will work with our 4G network for calling.
Beyond that, iPhone 12 was the first iPhone model to be 5G-capable.
For Android phones, the Samsung Galaxy S4 was the first S Series phone to use 4G, meaning the Galaxy S4 and newer phones are 4G capable.
Tablets and iPad models can work on our mobile network of course. It was the 3rd generation iPad with cellular that first came with support for 4G, and that launched in early 2012.
Most 4G/5G phones will work fine but there are a couple of things to bear in mind:
- You may need to ensure you have downloaded and installed the latest phone updates and then enabled 4G/5G data and 4G/5G voice calling (also called “VoLTE” in your phone settings).
- Some older 4G phones may not work for 4G/VoLTE voice calling although 4G data and text/SMS will probably continue to work. Again, ensure you have downloaded and installed the latest phone updates and then enabled 4G/5G data and 4G/5G voice calling (also called “VoLTE” in your phone settings).
3G-only phones tend to be quite old now. For example, iPhone 4S supported 2G and 3G networks, and iPhone 5 was the first iPhone model to support 4G data.
iPhone 6 was the first to use 4G for voice calls. So any iPhone model newer than iPhone 6 will work with our 4G network for calling.
Beyond that, iPhone 12 was the first iPhone model to be 5G-capable.
For Android phones, the Samsung Galaxy S4 was the first S Series phone to use 4G, meaning the Galaxy S4 and newer phones are 4G capable.
Tablets and iPad models can work on our mobile network of course. It was the 3rd generation iPad with cellular that first came with support for 4G, and that launched in early 2012.
How do I check if my device is 4G or 5G VoLTE capable?
A list of 4G and 5G-capable devices is available here so you can check if your phone supports VoLTE. If you’re still unsure, pop into a One NZ store, and the team will check for you.
If you’re unsure what model your device is, you’ll find this information in your phone’s settings.
If you’re unsure what model your device is, you’ll find this information in your phone’s settings.
Will I need a new SIM card?
If your phone is fully 4G/5G compatible then you won’t need to change your SIM card. If you need to upgrade your phone, then it is possible that your new phone will require a smaller SIM card, which you may need to visit a One NZ retail store to get your connection switched over to this new SIM card. You can still keep your existing phone number. Find out more about swapping your SIM here.
My phone isn’t connecting to 4G. What should I do?
Follow these steps to see if your phone is 4G ready:
Having issues connecting to 4G?
Contact us
- Check if your phone is 4G-capable. A list of 4G and 5G-capable devices is available here.
- Ensure your phone’s software is up to date and the VoLTE service has been enabled in your device settings. If needed, you can access instructions for enabling VoLTE here.
- Update your device settings to connect to 4G using these user guides.
- Check you're in an area with 4G coverage using our network coverage map.
Having issues connecting to 4G?
Contact us
I need to upgrade my mobile phone but don’t want an expensive device. What can I do?
You can check out our great range of 4G and 5G-capable phones. To find the best option for you, talk to one of our mobile experts or visit us in-store.
What is VoLTE?
VoLTE stands for ‘Voice over LTE’ and it means 4G/5G voice calling. When 3G is shutdown then VoLTE will the be standard way to make mobile voice calls with 4G/5G mobile phones. You can learn more about VoLTE here.
Will my Wireless Modem or Homephone Wireless device be affected?
There are a few older devices that will be affected when we shut down the 3G network:
Don’t worry if you have one of these devices, we will be contacting you soon to let you know exactly what will happen.
- 3G only data modems with or without landline calling.
- 4G data modems that use 3G for landline calling (if they are only used for data then no changes are required).
- Homephone Wireless 3G devices used for landline calling.
Don’t worry if you have one of these devices, we will be contacting you soon to let you know exactly what will happen.
Free TXT 3G to 550
How will my phone number be used when I message the SMS checker?
We will compare the phone number you use to message the SMS checker against our records, so that we can tell you whether your device is 4G/5G compatible. We will use and protect your information in accordance with our privacy policy https://one.nz/legal/policy/privacy/.
What do my responses mean?
Here is a breakdown of what your responses mean:
You will need to upgrade to an approved phone
If you received one of these messages, your phone is not compatible once 3G shuts down. Please visit a One NZ store to explore your upgrade options – we’re here to help!
You should upgrade to an approved phone for the best possible coverage.
If you received any of these messages, your phone doesn’t have the technology to receive the best 4G/5G coverage possible.
You need to update your phone settings
If you received one of these messages, your phone may work – but you’ll need to update your phone’s software and enable 4G/5G data and calling (VoLTE). See top of this page for how-to steps.
You need to update your phone settings
If you received one of these messages, your phone may work – but you’ll need to update your phone’s software and enable 4G/5G data and calling (VoLTE). See top of this page for how-to steps.
Check again next month.
If you received the message below, it may mean we may not have the latest info just yet. Just check back again next month. If you still have concerns, just contact our team or visit in store.
This phone checker uses best efforts to assess phones but may not be 100% perfect.
You’re good to go!
If you received one of these messages, great news — your phone is working well!
If you bought it from a NZ mobile provider or manufacturer’s NZ website, emergency calls will work too.
You will need to upgrade to an approved phone
If you received one of these messages, your phone is not compatible once 3G shuts down. Please visit a One NZ store to explore your upgrade options – we’re here to help!
| Message | What it means |
Your phone is only able to connect through 2G or 3G so you’ll need to upgrade to a new phone soon. | Your phone does not have any 4G capabilities. |
| Your phone may work for 4G data but it won’t be able to make 4G voice calls (including emergency calls). | Your phone does not support 4G calling. |
You should upgrade to an approved phone for the best possible coverage.
If you received any of these messages, your phone doesn’t have the technology to receive the best 4G/5G coverage possible.
| Message | What it means |
| Your phone won’t get the best 4G/5G coverage in rural areas or inside large buildings. | This means you may experience poorer coverage when inside large buildings or in rural areas - you may already experience dropped calls. An approved phone upgrade would fix this. |
You need to update your phone settings
If you received one of these messages, your phone may work – but you’ll need to update your phone’s software and enable 4G/5G data and calling (VoLTE). See top of this page for how-to steps.
| Message | What it means |
| Your phone isn’t tested by One NZ. | This means you have a phone model that isn’t tested for 4G/5G calling. |
| Your phone isn’t using 4G/5G for voice calls right now. | Due to your phone’s default setting. |
| Your phone is making 4G/5G calls, but not guaranteed for emergency calls. | As it’s not a phone model that we have tested, we can’t guarantee this. |
You need to update your phone settings
If you received one of these messages, your phone may work – but you’ll need to update your phone’s software and enable 4G/5G data and calling (VoLTE). See top of this page for how-to steps.
| Message | What it means |
| Your phone is using older 2G/3G networks for calls. | Due to your phone’s default setting. |
| Your phone isn’t using the 4G/5G networks right now. | Due to your phone’s default setting. |
| Not currently making 4G/5G calls. | Due to your phone’s default setting. Please switch on 4G/5G calling (VoLTE). |
| If you bought your phone from overseas or from a parallel importer, we can’t guarantee it will work. | We can’t guarantee that your phone will work for 4G/5G voice calls or emergency calling. |
Check again next month.
If you received the message below, it may mean we may not have the latest info just yet. Just check back again next month. If you still have concerns, just contact our team or visit in store.
This phone checker uses best efforts to assess phones but may not be 100% perfect.
| Message | What it means |
| We don’t have any records for your phone. | You may have recently changed your phone or recently signed up as a One NZ. |
| Or have an uncommon model of phone or device we can’t track | We can’t track your phone model or device. |
You’re good to go!
If you received one of these messages, great news — your phone is working well!
If you bought it from a NZ mobile provider or manufacturer’s NZ website, emergency calls will work too.
- Your phone is working well for 4G/5G data and calling.
Roaming
Can I still use my current phone overseas?
An increasing number of our overseas roaming partners are also shutting down their 3G networks. Depending on where you’re travelling, you may need a 4G/VoLTE-roaming capable phone to access mobile services in that country. See more details about roaming and overseas 3G networks here.