One NZ ends 2G and 3G network services across New Zealand

One NZ has completed the shutdown of its 2G and 3G mobile networks across New Zealand, ending more than 20 years of service on the older networks.

Both legacy networks are now fully retired after a region-by-region switch-off, as customers moved to 4G and 5G services.

Kieran Byrne, Chief Technology Officer at One NZ, described the closure as a major milestone for the business and its customers.

"Switching off our 2G and 3G networks is a big moment. They've connected Kiwis for more than 20 years, but the way we use our phones has completely changed. Data use keeps climbing as mobiles have become our 'life remote' for work, entertainment, banking, shopping - everything. In the past year alone, Kiwis have used 18% more data on our mobile network," Byrne said.

Retiring 2G and 3G frees up radio spectrum for newer mobile technologies, which One NZ plans to re-use for 4G and 5G services.

Byrne said the change would help improve the network. "By switching off the old technology and re-using the radio spectrum on 4G and 5G, we can boost speeds, increase capacity and make sure our network is ready to support New Zealanders with what's next," he said.

Customer transition

Before completing the shutdown, One NZ spent more than two years contacting customers and businesses that still relied on older devices and services. That work included checking handset compatibility, enabling 4G calling through VoLTE, and replacing equipment that depended on 2G or 3G connectivity.

Some users have still not upgraded. Those customers can no longer call, send texts, or use mobile data on older devices, including to contact emergency services on 111.

Byrne said the company had worked to give users sufficient warning. "Our teams at One NZ have been contacting customers for over two years to make sure everyone had plenty of notice and, wherever possible, nobody was left behind. We know there are a very small number of customers who, for whatever reason, will not have made the switch in time. With 2G and 3G now fully shut down, it is critical they move to a newer phone, as from today they will be unable to call, text or use data on their existing device, including for contacting emergency services on 111.

"Customers who still need to make the switch are welcome to come into our stores for help, and our team can get them set up with a 4G-compatible phone. Don't leave it until you need it," he said.

Network focus

The closure reflects a broader industry shift away from older network standards, as operators direct spectrum and investment towards newer mobile services. Legacy networks have remained in place partly to support older handsets and machine-to-machine connections, but operators have increasingly argued that maintaining them is inefficient as data usage rises.

One NZ's next priority is extending and improving coverage across the country. It also highlighted more than $100 million in mobile network improvements last year.

Byrne linked that spending to a broader push on network services. "We're focused on giving our customers the best possible network experience, and we've backed that up by investing more than $100 million in mobile network improvements last year, as well as continuing to improve our satellite service with the launch of data and WhatsApp calling through space. As we continue to innovate, I believe there's never been a better time to be a One NZ customer," he said.