One New Zealand will move its 3G switch-off date out from 31 March 2025 to 31 December 2025, the same date it is planning to switch off its 2G network.
GM Mobile Network, Thaigan Govender says: “Over the past couple of years our network team has been hard at work rolling out 4G and 5G networks in New Zealand. Over the past 24 months we’ve built over 300 new sites and upgraded 600 sites to create a faster, more reliable and intelligent network fit for the future.
“While waiting to the end of 2025 will give customers a little more time to upgrade their old phones and devices, the message is clear, it is past time to upgrade.”
Aussie roaming is turning off very soon
On Monday 28 October 2024, Australia will join the growing list of countries to switch off their own 3G networks. This will mean One New Zealand customers still using a 3G only phone will be unable to use it when travelling across the ditch.
“If you’re planning to travel, it’s important to check whether your phone is compatible with the network in the countries you are visiting. Now 4G and 5G are the modern standards, so in future you’ll need a newer phone that is fully 4G or 5G compatible to connect to networks in Australia and other countries,” Thaigan explains.
Reasons to switch include environmental
“Back home in New Zealand, we’ve made huge leaps forward with our 4G and 5G coverage in many regions across the North and South Islands. Reusing 2G and 3G spectrum allows us to further enhance these networks, including in rural areas and to serve the large demand in data use that is growing year on year. But to take advantage of this coverage, you need a 4G or 5G compatible device.
“There’s also the environmental impact, these older networks have done an amazing job given their age, but they carry very little traffic now but consume a lot of energy. By switching off 2G and 3G, we can reduce our carbon emissions and reuse the radio spectrum to further strengthen our modern, more energy efficient networks for customers.”
It’s easy (and affordable) to upgrade
“We’re continuing to get in touch with customers who need to upgrade directly, but the key message here is don’t wait. You can upgrade today, and you’ll also reap the benefits of a better connectivity experience. This means fewer dropped calls and better browsing online.
“Customers can upgrade to a new phone on our website, by calling us, or visiting one of our retail stores. We’ll check your current phone, and let you know what your options are at a wide variety of price points. We also offer interest free payment terms, to make it affordable to upgrade.
Thaigan adds: “Please act today, we don’t want to leave anyone behind when we switch the networks off at the end of next year.”
For more info visit: 3G Switch Off. One NZ.
For more information on what coverage is available at a certain address, head to https://one.nz/coverage/