New Zealand is saying goodbye to 3G. Are you ready for the change?
1. What’s happening?
From the end of 2025, beginning of 2026, New Zealand’s mobile operators (2degrees, One NZ and Spark) will shutdown their 3G networks.
2. Why is 3G being shutdown?
3G is old technology. This is part of a global upgrade to 4G and 5G technology, to deliver a more reliable experience for consumers and future-proof connectivity.
3. Why does this matter?
3G-reliant phones, tablets, alarms and business/IoT devices will no longer work after the shutdown.
Most New Zealanders already use 4G or 5G devices, but if you’re unsure, it’s important to check.
Some 4G phones still use 3G for voice calls, and may require changes to settings to default to 4G networks.
Affordable, compatible devices are available, and support is available for those who need it.
4. Who is affected?
Anyone using a 3G-reliant phone, tablet, medical alarms, security alarms, business equipment, vehicle trackers and other IoT devices.
Most New Zealanders already use 4G or 5G devices, but if you’re unsure, it’s important to check your device now.
5. How can I check my phone?
FREE-TXT ‘3G’ to 550 to check you can stay connected.
Visit your mobile provider’s website or go instore for further support:
2degrees
One NZ
Spark
6. What do I do if my phone isn’t ready?
If action is required, your provider will guide you through your next steps.
You may need to update your settings or software, or upgrade your device. Affordable options are available, speak to your provider about your needs.
7. How do I update my phone to use 4G/5G?
To update your phone: make sure your phone’s software is updated to the latest version.
To turn on 4G/5G in your settings:
iPhone: Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Options > Voice & Data > Select 4G/5G
Android: Settings > Mobile networks > Enable 4G/5G
For step-by-step help, visit your provider’s website or ask in-store:
2degrees
One NZ
Spark
8. Do I need a new SIM card?
If your SIM card isn’t 4G capable, you may need a new one.
Your provider can help you transfer your number to a new SIM if needed.
9. What if my device was bought overseas?
Some imported devices may not work on New Zealand networks, even if they are advertised as 4G.
FREE-TXT ‘3G’ to 550 to check.
10. What other devices are affected?
Any other IoT devices that rely on 3G will stop working after the shutdown.
This includes some tablets, smart watches, medical alarms, security alarms, and other business devices.
Please contact your device supplier to confirm if your device is affected.
11. What about emergency calls?
3G-reliant devices will not be able to make any calls, including to 111, after the shutdown. It is critical to check and update or upgrade your device so you can contact emergency services.
12. If I need to upgrade, can I recycle my old phone?
Yes, you can recycle your old phone for free with RE:MOBILE. There are free-post options, or over 500 drop-off locations across Aotearoa.
Learn more at: remobile.org.nz
13. Where can I get help?
Visit your mobile provider’s website or go instore for further support:
2degrees
One NZ
Spark
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Even Australians get it - so why not Kiwis???
“Ten years ago, if a heatwave as intense as last week’s record-breaker had hit the east coast, Australia’s power supply may well have buckled. But this time, the system largely operated as we needed, despite some outages.
On Australia’s main grid last quarter, renewables and energy storage contributed more than 50% of supplied electricity for the first time, while wholesale power prices were more than 40% lower than a year earlier.
[…] shifting demand from gas and coal for power and petrol for cars is likely to deliver significantly lower energy bills for households.
Last quarter, wind generation was up almost 30%, grid solar 15% and grid-scale batteries almost tripled their output. Gas generation fell 27% to its lowest level for a quarter century, while coal fell 4.6% to its lowest quarterly level ever.
Gas has long been the most expensive way to produce power. Gas peaking plants tend to fire up only when supply struggles to meet demand and power prices soar. Less demand for gas has flowed through to lower wholesale prices.”
Full article: www.theguardian.com...
If even Australians see the benefit of solar - then why is NZ actively boycotting solar uptake? The increased line rental for electricity was done to make solar less competitive and prevent cost per kWh to rise even more than it did - and electricity costs are expected to rise even more. Especially as National favours gas - which is the most expensive form of generating electricity. Which in turn will accelerate Climate Change, as if New Zealand didn’t have enough problems with droughts, floods, slips, etc. already.
New BEGINNERS LINEDANCING CLASS
Epsom Methodist church
12 pah Rd GREENWOODS cnr. Epsom
Monday 9th February 7pm - 9pm
Tuesday 10th February 10am -11am
Just turn up on the day
Time to Tickle Your Thinker 🧠
If a zookeeper had 100 pairs of animals in her zoo, and two pairs of babies are born for each one of the original animals, then (sadly) 23 animals don’t survive, how many animals do you have left in total?
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post and we'll post the answer in the comments below at 2pm on the day!
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