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:
Spark
- Spark plans to fully retire its 3G network towards the end of 2025.
- Spark’s official help page: Spark 3G Shutdown Info
One NZ (formerly Vodafone)
- One NZ has stated a shutdown of 3G services on 31 December 2025.
- One NZ help page: One NZ 3G Exit
2degrees
- 2degrees is giving 3G the boot in late 2025.
- 2degrees help page: 2degrees 3G Retirement
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:
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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
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Check Your IMEI Number
There are tools popping up that’ll tell you if your device is ready for the 3G shutdown. Most rely on your IMEI number - a unique ID tied to your phone.
Here’s how to find it:
- Dial *#06# and your phone’s IMEI should appear
- Alternatively, check Settings > About Phone
Once you’ve got your IMEI:
- Use carrier-specific IMEI checkers.
- There are also tools like this one from the NZ Telecommunications Forum Inc, which isn’t carrier-specific but does the same thing.
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. While 3G’s on the chopping block, 4G is here to stay for the foreseeable future. In fact, most telcos say 4G will remain the backbone of mobile connectivity for at least the next several years, especially for areas where 5G coverage is still rolling out.
So, if you’re upgrading from a 3G-only or semi-compatible device, don’t feel like you have to buy a 5G phone (unless you want futureproofing). A good 4G model will still keep you connected for a while at least.
Common Questions People Are Asking Online (With Straightforward Answers)
We dug through Reddit threads, forums, Facebook groups, and Google’s “People Also Ask” box to find what real Kiwis are confused about. Here’s a quick guide:
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.
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: If you’re on a really old SIM (like pre-2014), it might not support VoLTE. Your carrier can upgrade it for free or very cheap.
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? Browse our range of 4G and 5G phones - and future-proof your connectivity today.
