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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Poll: If we want to reduce speeding, what do you think actually changes driver behaviour? 🛻🚨🚓
In the Post's article on speeding penalties, the question is asked whether speeding fines are truly about road safety, or are they just a way to boost revenue for the Crown?
What do you think? Should speeding motorists receive speeding fines or demerit points?
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37% The sting of a fine (Money talks!)
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63% The threat of demerit points (Nobody wants to lose their license!)
Some Choice News!
DOC is rolling out a new tool to help figure out what to tackle first when it comes to protecting our threatened species and the things putting them at risk.
Why does this matter? As Nikki Macdonald from The Post points out, we’re a country with around 4,400 threatened species. With limited time and funding, conservation has always meant making tough calls about what gets attention first.
For the first time, DOC has put real numbers around what it would take to do everything needed to properly safeguard our unique natural environment. The new BioInvest tool shows the scale of the challenge: 310,177 actions across 28,007 sites.
Now that we can see the full picture, it brings the big question into focus: how much do we, as Kiwis, truly value protecting nature — and what are we prepared to invest to make it happen?
We hope this brings a smile!
🎉 Riddle me this, legends! 🎉
He/She who makes it, sells it.
He/She who buys it, doesn't use it.
The user doesn't know they are using it.
What is it?
(Shezz from Ngāruawāhia kindly provided this head-scratcher ... thanks, Shezz!)
Do you think you know the answer? Simply 'Like' this post if you know the answer and the big reveal will be posted in the comments at 2pm on the day!
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