The 3G mobile network is being shut down to make way for the faster, next-generation 4G and 5G networks. Text 3G to 550 for details relating to your phone and the change.
All three main mobile operators are upgrading: Spark, 2degrees, and One NZ.
Most people will not notice a difference as 3G goes away, but those with older phones or certain wired devices, such as home security systems, need to pay attention, says Telecommunications Forum chief executive Paul Brislen.
2degrees CEO Mark Callander says that 2degrees 3G services on around 100 sites will be decommissioned this month – all of these are part of the Rural Connectivity Group network.
“3G usage on RCG sites is actually rather small, with most people connecting via 4G, so the impact to anyone still using 3G to connect in those areas is likely to be minimal.
Callander says 2degrees has been urging customers to prepare for this shutdown, and the time to act is now.
“We have been repeatedly communicating with all impacted customers, but human nature being what it is, some people will be waiting until the last minute to upgrade an old device. Please check your device, and replace it if you need to.”
The major upgrade has been in the works for the past few years.
“3G is an old technology now, and it’s being closed down internationally. The next generation of mobile services are designed for modern mobile use, whether that’s streaming, video calls, or running multiple apps and programmes all requiring data.
“Modern networks need to be faster, more resilient, and more sustainable. 3G simply can’t deliver the performance New Zealand now relies on.
“By retiring this legacy technology, we can focus on strengthening and expanding our 4G and 5G networks, which carry the vast majority of today’s mobile traffic.”
What to do with old devices
More than 71,600 unwanted mobile phones were diverted from landfill over the past year through RE:MOBILE, the telecommunications industry’s not-for-profit product stewardship scheme, according to its newly released FY25 Annual Report.
Administered by the New Zealand Telecommunications Forum (TCF), RE:MOBILE provides a nationwide system for mobile phones and accessories to be reused, refurbished or responsibly recycled, supporting a circular economy and reducing environmental impacts.
Since its launch in 2014, the scheme has collected 904,555 mobile phones across New Zealand, diverting more than 164 tonnes of waste and avoiding an estimated 355 tonnes of carbon emissions.
Devices that cannot be reused are recycled in accordance with New Zealand standards. At the same time, eligible phones are refurbished for resale in secondary markets or donated to organisations supporting vulnerable communities, extending product lifespans and reducing the need for new manufacturing.
All revenue generated through the scheme is donated to RE:MOBILE’s charitable partner, Sustainable Coastlines, which supports environmental protection and litter reduction initiatives across Aotearoa. In FY25, the scheme donated $10,478, bringing total contributions to $242,091 since the partnership began.
RE:MOBILE is supported by mobile network operators 2degrees, One NZ, and Spark, as well as nationwide partners including Noel Leeming and Resene ColorShops.
The programme now operates more than 400 collection points nationwide, spanning retail outlets and community spaces such as libraries, schools and civic centres.
With 2degrees already underway and One NZ and Spark approaching the closure of their 3G mobile networks, the scheme is encouraging New Zealanders to responsibly recycle older devices rather than sending them to landfill.
“Every phone collected through RE:MOBILE is one less device ending up in landfill,” says Paul Brislen.
“Instead, valuable materials are recovered, working phones are given a second life, and potentially harmful components like lithium-ion batteries are handled safely.
“RE:MOBILE provides a trusted, industry-wide solution to safely dispose of those devices — benefiting both consumers and the environment.”
He says it’s a great time to clear out drawers and cupboards and dig out old phones.
“Recycling is free — simply drop devices at your nearest RE:MOBILE collection point or book a free collection through the RE:MOBILE website.
“The rise in trade-ins shows New Zealanders want practical, responsible ways to manage old technology.
“These programmes also increase the availability of refurbished devices, some of which can be donated to community organisations to help vulnerable consumers access digital services.”
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