3G Networks Shutting Down in NZ - Here’s What to Do

You know that old phone in your drawer? The one you thought you might need in emergencies, or maybe the one you handed to grandma because “it still works fine”? Well, bad news: if it relies on 3G, it’s on borrowed time.

That’s right - the 3G era in New Zealand is coming to an end. One by one, local telcos are pulling the plug on 3G networks, and it’s going to affect more people than you might think. Whether you’re clinging to a trusty old mobile, relying on an older GPS tracker or IoT device, or just unsure what this all means, we’ve got your back. Here’s everything you need to know (and what to do next).

Wait, 3G Is Still a Thing?

Yup. Even though we’ve all been talking about 5G for years, a decent chunk of mobile users in NZ still lean on 3G - especially for voice calls and texting. Some phones, including popular budget models, might use 4G for data but fall back to 3G for everything else. So, if your device isn’t fully 4G VoLTE-capable (Voice over LTE), it might stop working once 3G is switched off.

When Are NZ Networks Shutting Down 3G?

Here’s the current timeline from the big players in New Zealand:

So yeah, the clock is ticking. If you’re still on a 3G-only device or one that leans heavily on 3G for calls/texts, it's time to get sorted.

Why are 3G networks being switched off?

New Zealand's major telecommunications providers are phasing out 3G networks to repurpose the radio spectrum for more advanced technologies like 5G. This shift allows for faster internet speeds, improved call quality, and enhanced services, particularly in rural areas where connectivity has been limited.

How Do I Know if My Phone Will Still Work?

Good question - and it’s not always as simple as “Does my phone say 4G in the corner?”

Here’s a quick DIY guide to find out:

Check Compatibility by Text

You can now check if your phone is ready for the 3G shutdown by sending a simple text.

Text 3G to 550 

• You'll receive a reply confirming whether your phone is compatible with the future mobile network (i.e supports VoLTE).
• Make sure you send the text from the device you want to check. 

Simply text '3G' to 550, and you'll hear back with confirmation on whether you're phone is ready for the 3G shutdown.

Another way to check is by using your IMEI number. 

Check Your IMEI Number

Your IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) is a unique 15-digit number that identifies your mobile device. It’s essential for checking if your phone will still work after the 3G shutdown and for blocking a lost or stolen phone.

Option 1: Dial a Code (Works on Most Phones)

• Open your Phone app.
• Dial *#06# (star, hash, zero, six, hash).
• Your IMEI number(s) will appear instantly.

*Dual SIM phones will show two IMEIs.

Option 2: Through Settings

For Most iPhones:

• Go to Settings.
• Tap General > About.
• Scroll to find IMEI (and IMEI2 if dual SIM).

*You can also find it under Settings > Cellular > SIM Information on some models.

For Most Samsung Phones:

• Open Settings.
• Tap About phone.
• Your IMEI number(s) will be listed near the top.

For Other Android Devices:

• Go to Settings.
• Tap About phone or About device.
• Look for IMEI or Status > IMEI information.

Option 3: On the Device or Packaging

SIM tray: Some phones have the IMEI printed on the SIM tray.

Back of the phone: Especially older models.

Retail box: Check the barcode label on the box your phone came in.

Still stuck?

Try this in-depth guide: PhoneArena’s IMEI Guide (Global)

Once you’ve got your IMEI:

• Use a carrier-specific IMEI checker, like the one on this help page from Spark

Spark's IMEI checker.

Check for 4G Voice (VoLTE)

Some phones use 4G for data but rely on 3G for voice and texts. What you need is VoLTE - voice over 4G. If your phone doesn’t support that, you may lose calling and texting when 3G shuts down.

On most phones:

• Go to Settings > Mobile Network > Preferred network type
• Look for something like ‘VoLTE calls’ or ‘4G Calling’ and make sure it’s turned on

Do you own a Xiaomi phone?

If you're a Xiaomi owner, you're in the right place. Xiaomi phones don't have VoLTE switched on automatically, but the good news is you can get this fixed in a jiffy. We've made a full guide on how to enable VoLTE for compatible Xiaomi mobile phone owners, so be sure to check that out as soon as possible!

What Happens If I Do Nothing?

Nothing just yet. But very soon, when your network pulls the plug on 3G in your area, here’s what could go sideways:

• Your phone might lose the ability to make or receive calls
• Text messages might stop working
• Emergency calling (111) could fail
• Even if 4G data still works, you won’t be able to use voice or SMS if the phone isn’t VoLTE-capable

You may still have Wi-Fi access and mobile data, but no calls or texts means your phone’s halfway to being a very expensive calculator. A calculator that can browse the web sometimes!

What About Older or Parallel Imported Phones?

Here's where it gets a bit messy. Some phones sold overseas, especially cheaper Androids or grey-market imports, technically support 4G but lack the right frequency bands or carrier certifications for NZ’s networks.

Many Aussie and NZ users learned the hard way when Australia began blocking “unofficial” 4G phones that couldn’t handle VoLTE.

Pro tip: If your phone was bought off an overseas site and it’s missing VoLTE, it may not be supported for calls after the 3G shutdown.

Will 4G Be Around Long-Term?

Yes, 4G is here to stay for the foreseeable future, especially in New Zealand. While telcos are retiring older 3G networks to make room for newer technologies, 4G remains a critical backbone of mobile connectivity and will continue to be supported for many years.

Why 4G Still Matters

Coverage: As of 2025, 99% of where Kiwis live and work is already covered by 4G or 5G, according to One NZ.

Fallback for 5G: Even as 5G expands, 4G will continue to serve as a fallback layer for areas where 5G isn’t yet available or stable.

Voice Calling (VoLTE): 4G is essential for VoLTE (Voice over LTE), which replaces traditional voice calls previously handled by 3G. Without 4G, many phones would lose calling capability entirely.

What some NZ Telcos Are Saying

One NZ confirms that after the 3G shutdown, all current 3G coverage areas will be upgraded to 4G or 5G.

Spark is also investing in expanding its 4G network even as it prepares to shut down 3G by March 2026 2.

Both carriers emphasise that 4G will remain a core part of their networks for the long term, especially for voice and rural coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 3G Shutdown

Q: Can I still use my old 3G phone on Wi-Fi?

A: Yes! It won’t have mobile calling or texting, but it’ll still connect to Wi-Fi just fine.

Q: I’ve got 4G data, but calls don’t work - why?

A: Probably because your phone doesn’t support VoLTE, or it’s not enabled. Head into your settings and check if 4G calling is switched on. This is especially important for Xiaomi owners, so if calls aren't working but you have 4G data, or you own a Xiaomi, be sure to check out our full guide on enabling VoLTE for Xiaomi phones.

The process may look slightly different if your phone isn't from Xiaomi, but the steps are usually the same.

Q: My phone says LTE or 4G, does that mean I’m safe?

A: Not necessarily. That just covers data. Voice is the tricky part - make sure it specifically says VoLTE or 4G Voice.

Q: Will I need to change SIM cards?

A: Probably not, but it depends on your phone.
Most modern SIM cards are already compatible with 4G and VoLTE. However, if:

• Your SIM is very old (pre-2014),
• You’re using a 3G-only phone, or
• Your phone doesn’t support VoLTE,

then you may need to upgrade your SIM to ensure full service after the 3G shutdown.

How to check:
Contact your mobile provider or visit a store. They can confirm if your SIM is VoLTE-ready and replace it for free if needed.

Time to Upgrade? Here’s What to Look For

If your current phone isn’t 3G-shutdown ready, there’s a silver lining: it might be the perfect excuse for a well-deserved upgrade.

What to check when shopping:

• 4G and VoLTE support (for all 3 major NZ networks)
• 5G support if you want future-proofing
• NZ Carrier compatibility - look for local models or those sold by a New Zealand retailer like PB Tech.
• Updated Android or iOS versions for long-term support and security

TL;DR - The End of 3G Is Near, But You’ve Got Options

Here’s the gist: 3G networks across New Zealand will start shutting down soon and will be completely gone by the end of 2025, and devices that depend on 3G for voice or text will soon be cut off. If your phone isn’t VoLTE-capable or if it’s an overseas model, it’s time to start shopping.

The good news? You don’t need to panic - just plan ahead. There are plenty of affordable 4G and 5G options available now, and staying connected doesn’t have to mean breaking the bank.

So whether you’re helping your parents upgrade their old Nokia or replacing your own ageing backup phone, now’s the time to act.

Ready to upgrade? Check out some of our top 4G and 5G phone picks - and future-proof your connectivity today.