2degrees begins phased 3G shutdown across rural NZ
New Zealand mobile operator 2degrees will begin shutting down its 3G network this month, starting the phased withdrawal of a legacy service as customers move to 4G and 5G.
The company will switch off 3G services on around 100 sites in the first wave. These sites sit on the Rural Connectivity Group (RCG) network, which extends coverage into remote areas.
The move will remove 3G from operation at those locations. Customers in those areas will connect through 4G and 5G instead.
2degrees first signalled its plan to decommission 3G last year. The operator is now starting the physical shutdown of equipment at selected sites.
Chief Executive Mark Callander said usage on the affected sites has already shifted to newer technology.
"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. We have been urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to take action is now," said Mark Callander, Chief Executive Officer, 2degrees.
Customers can check if their phones support 4G through a 2degrees text service. They can text "3G" to the short code 550 and receive details about their device and links to further information.
Callander said the company has been contacting users who may be affected.
"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," said Callander.
2degrees said it stopped selling 3G-only handsets several years ago. It began selling 4G phones in 2018 and has sold only 4G and 5G handsets since mid 2022.
The company said entry-level 4G devices are available from NZD $69. This price point targets customers who still rely on older phones.
2degrees has been upgrading its mobile network over recent years. It has enhanced 4G services and added 5G equipment to many sites.
Callander said 3G has reached the end of its lifecycle in many markets.
"3G is an old technology now, and it's being closed down internationally. The next generation of mobile services - 4G and 5G - 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," said Callander.
The closure affects more than phones. Some tablets, medical alarms and security systems still depend on 3G connectivity.
Callander asked customers to consider people in their wider circles who may be using older devices.
He said people should check with friends, whānau, neighbours and colleagues about their phones and connected devices. He said some users may not realise they rely on 3G for critical services.
"We have been urging customers to get ready for this shutdown, and the time to take action is now," said Callander.
2degrees said 3G services outside the initial RCG sites will remain in place for now. The company plans further 3G closures early in 2026 as part of a staged nationwide withdrawal.
The operator said recycling options exist for customers who replace their phones. Old devices can be dropped off at 2degrees stores.
2degrees also directs customers to mobile recycling initiative RE:MOBILE for more information. RE:MOBILE collects and recycles used handsets and other mobile devices.
New Zealand mobile networks have expanded 4G and 5G coverage and capacity in recent years. The shift has reduced the proportion of traffic that runs on 3G and increased demand for data services.
2degrees said it will continue to communicate with customers during the transition. It said it will provide updates as more sites move off 3G and onto newer technologies.