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As New Zealand’s telecommunications industry prepares to shut down 3G networks from the end of 2025, everyone needs to ensure they stay connected. Craig Young, CEO of TUANZ, is urging all New Zealanders, particularly those in rural areas, to check their devices immediately.
“We’re sharing this important message because staying connected is not just a convenience, it’s essential,” says Craig.
“For rural communities, reliable connectivity can mean the difference between accessing healthcare, running a business, or calling for help in an emergency. We cannot afford to leave anyone behind in this transition.”
The shutdown affects more than just mobile phones. Medical alarms, security systems, vehicle trackers, and various Internet of Things (IoT) devices used in agriculture and business operations may also rely on 3G technology. For example, if your farm business depends on connected devices for anything from soil monitoring to livestock tracking, you need to check if it’s compatible.
The move to 4G and 5G isn’t simply about keeping up with technology trends, it’s about delivering better, faster and more reliable connectivity for everyone. By shutting down the older 3G network, telecommunications providers can redirect resources and radio spectrum to expand 4G and 5G coverage, particularly in rural areas that need it most. This means faster speeds, better call quality, and greater network capacity where New Zealanders need it.
“The upgrade to 4G and 5G represents a significant step forward for rural connectivity. Areas currently serviced by 3G will see substantial benefits when that spectrum is reallocated to newer technologies. But this only works if everyone has compatible devices,” says Craig.
The good news is that most New Zealanders are already using 4G or 5G devices and won’t need to do anything. However, if you’re using an older phone or are unsure about your device’s compatibility, you need to check now. The simplest way is to text ‘3G’ to 550. This is a free checker tool that will tell you if your device is ready for the change and what to do if it isn’t. For other devices, you should contact your supplier or provider directly.
Recognising that some people need extra support to navigate this change, the telecommunications industry has developed comprehensive resources available at the 3G shutdown website. These include translated materials for non-English speakers, posters, flyers, factsheets, and a sign language video. These tools are designed to ensure that everyone, regardless of age, language or digital literacy can access the information they need.
This commitment to inclusive communication was a key discussion point at the recent Connecting Aotearoa Summit, where industry leaders, community organisations, and government representatives came together to address digital connectivity challenges facing New Zealand.
“At Connecting Aotearoa, we heard clearly that rural and remote communities are concerned about being left behind in technology transitions,” says Craig.
“That’s why we’re encouraging community organisations, health networks, and local groups to share this information widely.”
The message is clear: check your device today, access the support available, and help spread the word. By acting now, rural New Zealand can ensure that when 3G shuts down from the end of 2025, everyone stays connected.
For more information and to access resources: www.3gshutdown.co.nz/
