NZ's 3G Shutdown: What They're Not Telling You
You’ve probably seen the news. By the end of 2025, New Zealand's 3G network will be switched off for good. The official advice is simple: to see if your phone is ready for the switch, text ‘3G’ to 550. You’ll get a message back letting you know if your device needs an upgrade.
This is all part of a global move to repurpose the 3G spectrum for faster, more efficient 4G and 5G networks. For most people in the cities with a recent phone, this will be a non-event. But here at The I.T. Bear, we’ve been digging a bit deeper. And it turns out, there’s a bit more to this story than just texting a number.
The Coverage Question: Will Rural NZ Be Left Behind?
The big promise from our telcos—Spark, One NZ, and 2degrees—is that they will "over-build" the 4G network to cover all existing 3G areas before they flick the switch. In theory, this means everywhere you currently get 3G, you’ll get 4G.
But here's the catch: 3G has been the reliable workhorse for rural New Zealand for years. Its lower-frequency bands travel further and penetrate buildings more effectively than some higher-frequency 4G bands. While the telcos are committed to using low-band spectrum for 4G to replicate this coverage, the real-world result won't be known until the 3G network is actually off.
There's a genuine risk that some rural communities, particularly in mountainous or remote regions, could see their reliable, if slow, 3G connection disappear, replaced by a less reliable 4G signal, or worse, nothing at all. The transition needs to be managed carefully to ensure the digital divide doesn't widen for those outside the main centres.
It's Not Just Your Phone
The 3G shutdown isn’t just about making calls or browsing the web on your mobile. For the last decade, 3G has been the backbone of the "Internet of Things" (IoT) in New Zealand. Thousands of devices that aren't phones rely on it.
Think about:
Medical and security alarms: Many older personal medical alarms and home security systems use a 3G connection to call for help.
In-car GPS and vehicle trackers: Fleet management systems and some in-car SOS features rely on 3G.
EFTPOS terminals: While most are moving to 4G or Wi-Fi, some older or more mobile terminals still use 3G.
Agricultural tech: Farmers use 3G-connected sensors for everything from soil moisture monitoring to tracking stock.
Vending machines and parking meters: Many of these automated systems use 3G to report sales and status.
These devices won't just stop working; they'll be completely cut off. The telcos are working with device providers to notify customers, but it's crucial for businesses and individuals to audit their own technology and check what network their devices are using.
The VoLTE Blind Spot: Why Your 4G Phone Might Still Be at Risk
This is the most subtle, and potentially most disruptive, issue. Just because your phone is "4G capable" doesn't mean you're in the clear.
For years, many 4G phones have used a system called 'Circuit Switched Fallback' (CSFB). This means that while your phone uses the 4G network for data (browsing, apps, etc.), the moment you make or receive a voice call, it "falls back" to the 3G network to handle it.
The solution to this is a technology called VoLTE, which stands for "Voice over Long-Term Evolution." VoLTE allows your phone to make high-definition voice calls directly over the 4G network, without needing 3G at all.
The problem is, not all 4G phones support VoLTE, and on some that do, it's not enabled by default. If your 4G phone doesn't have VoLTE enabled, once the 3G network is gone, you won't be able to make or receive calls—including to 111 emergency services.
What You Need to Do
Don't panic, but do be proactive. Here's your checklist:
Text 550: First things first, text '3G' to 550. This is the starting point and will catch the most obvious issues.
Check for VoLTE: On your smartphone, check your settings.
On iPhone: Go to Settings > Mobile > Mobile Data Options > Voice & Data. Make sure 4G or 5G is selected and that VoLTE is toggled on.
On Android: The path can vary, but it's usually under Settings > Connections (or Network & Internet) > Mobile Networks. Look for a "VoLTE calls" toggle and make sure it's on.
Audit Your Devices: Think about any other technology you use that might have a SIM card. Check with the manufacturer or service provider to see if it relies on the 3G network.
Check in on Whānau: Talk to less tech-savvy family and friends, especially older relatives or those in rural areas. Help them check their devices and understand the changes.
The move away from 3G is a necessary step forward for our digital future. But it's a big step, and it's important that no one gets left behind. A little bit of preparation now can save a lot of headaches down the line.
How The I.T. Bear Can Help
Feeling overwhelmed by all this? That's where we come in. At The I.T. Bear, we can help you and your family navigate the 3G shutdown with confidence.
Personal Tech Check-up: Not sure about that old tablet, the medical alarm for a parent, or the GPS in your car? We can help you check all your personal gadgets and devices to see what will be affected by the shutdown.
VoLTE & Settings Checks: We'll go through your phones and make sure they are fully 4G-calling capable, enabling VoLTE and any other necessary settings to ensure you stay connected.
Upgrade Advice: If you do need to upgrade, we provide independent, no-nonsense advice on the best and most cost-effective devices to meet your needs, ensuring you're ready for the future without overspending.
Don't wait until you're disconnected. Contact The I.T. Bear today for a chat about how we can make your transition from 3G seamless and stress-free.