Understanding VoLTE

VoLTE stands for 'Voice over Long Term Evolution', which is part of mobile high-speed wireless communication standards. That means voice calls will work on 4G networks (domestic and roaming), and on our 5G network (domestic).

Up until recently, voice calls would connect over 2G and 3G networks, while 4G has typically been used for data transmission. Enabling 4G Calling calls means better connectivity for the mobile network and, more importantly, better capacity.

One NZ will, of course, continue to support voice calls over 3G and 2G, for devices that are not 4G capable - and if your phone call is made outside a 4G coverage area.

VoLTE technology is a core part of the 5G standard, and voice calling will continue to be provided over 4G using VoLTE.
VoLTE roaming lets you make VoLTE calls when roaming to another network operator that supports VoLTE calling.

What VoLTE technology means for you.

Using VoLTE means you’ll experience crystal clear audio on your calls (reduced background noise) and a quicker call connection. VoLTE supports 4G to 3G handover to ensure call continuity and a smooth experience. This also means less disruption when downloading content and simultaneously receiving calls.

How to get enabled for 4G Calling:

1. Check whether you are within a 4G Calling/VoLTE coverage area, using our 4G coverage map. One NZ will continue to roll out VoLTE, so if you are not within coverage yet, keep checking. As of August 2023, we have started rolling out VoLTE coverage in certain roaming destinations with some of our partner networks, which will expand over time.

2. Check whether your phone supports VoLTE and/or VoLTE roaming. A list of supported devices is below.

• For iPhone users, that includes models from iPhone 6 and newer, all the way up to iPhone 14.
• For Android users, that includes phones like Galaxy S9 and newer.

3. You need to ensure your firmware is updated. If needed, you can prompt this update yourself.

4. You need to ensure VoLTE is enabled in your device settings. Once VoLTE is enabled, if your device is also VOLTE Roaming capable (outlined in below list), this will be automatically enabled.

5. To use 4G Calling while roaming, you need to ensure you are on an eligible One NZ Pay Monthly plan. All of our current in-market plans include VoLTE roaming.

Note: if still can’t connect to VoLTE, try turning your phone on and off again near the mobile cell site. Otherwise your SIM may need to be enabled for VoLTE, so contact us to get this sorted.

Where VoLTE is available today.

One NZ's 4G Calling deployment is now live across New Zealand. The first area to benefit from 4G Calling was Auckland’s North Shore in June 2019, and we now have finished our nationwide upgrade program.
In Rural Broadband areas, RBI2 sites are designed to support 4G Calling as they are switched on.